Safe Coolant Draining Procedure
Proper steps to drain coolant from a storage tank without spills or injury
Safety Precautions
Draining coolant from a storage tank requires careful preparation and adherence to safety steps to avoid spills and injury.
- Start by ensuring the engine is completely cool—never work on a hot cooling system
- Pressurized hot coolant can spray and cause severe burns
- Gather necessary supplies: a clean drain pan, gloves, safety goggles, and rags
- Locate your vehicle's coolant storage tank (typically a translucent plastic reservoir with "coolant" labels)
Coolant is toxic to both humans and animals. Always wear protective gloves and goggles when handling coolant, and ensure proper ventilation in your workspace.
Draining Process
Identify Drain Points
Locate the drain valve or plug on the storage tank or the connected radiator. Some systems require draining from the radiator to empty the tank fully.
Position Drain Pan
Place the drain pan directly underneath the drain valve. If no valve exists, prepare to disconnect the lower hose connected to the tank.
Open Valve/Disconnect Hose
Slowly open the valve using a wrench if needed. If disconnecting a hose, loosen the clamp with pliers and gently pull the hose free.
Post-Draining Steps
- Once the tank is empty, close the valve or reattach the hose securely
- Tighten the clamp to prevent future leaks
- Check if the radiator or other system components need draining
- Refer to your vehicle's manual for specific draining points
- Inspect the storage tank for cracks or damage before refilling
Proper Disposal
Handle the collected coolant with extreme care, as it is toxic to humans and animals.
- Never pour coolant down drains, soil, or storm drains
- Transfer the coolant to a sealed, labeled container
- Take it to a local recycling center, auto parts store, or hazardous waste facility
- Many locations accept used coolant at no cost
- Clean up any spills immediately with rags
- Dispose of contaminated materials according to local regulations
After draining, refill with the correct type of coolant, following your vehicle manufacturer's specifications for proper mixture and filling procedures.