2026-08-05

Clean Radiator

Correction code 18301000 1.08 NOTE: Unless otherwise explicitly stated in the procedure, the above correction code and FRT reflect all of the work required to perform this procedure, including the linked procedures. Do not stack correction codes unless explicitly told to do so. NOTE: See Flat Rate Times to learn more about FRTs and how they are created. NOTE: See Personal Protection to make sure proper PPE is worn when performing the below procedure.

  • 2026-08-05: Added the PROC_VC_X_RESET-RADIATOR-UA-INDEX routine.
  • 2026-04-16: Added the steps of separating the radiator from the vehicle and cleaning the bottom of the cooling fan.

Procedure

  1. Open the LH front door and lower the LH front window.
  2. Remove the active grille shutter. See Active Grille Shutter (Remove and Replace).
  3. Remove the locking tabs (x9) that attach the plastic grille to the radiator.
  4. Use a vacuum to clean the dirt on the radiator.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    If necessary, remove the large debris.
  5. Use a blow gun to clean the dirt on the radiator again.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Do not get too close to the radiator blades.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Dust and debris may fly out during the process; make sure to protect the vehicle and wear proper PPE , such as a mask, safety glasses, etc.
  6. For 12mm radiator: Release the 12mm radiator lower locking tabs (x4).
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Release the clips then guide out. Do not pry on the radiator to prevent damage.
  7. For 21mm radiator: Release the 21mm radiator lower locking tabs (x4).
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Release one clip at a time.
  8. Use an inflatable airbag to separate the radiator.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Use inflatable airbag to raise the edge of the radiator at a certain angle. Be careful not to damage the surface of the radiator or the 4 locking clips.
  9. Clean the bottom of the cooling fan.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Avoid moving debris onto the fan.
  10. Inspect the bottom of the cooling fan for debris.
  11. Remove the inflatable airbag.
  12. For 21mm radiator: Secure the 21mm radiator lower locking tabs (x4).
  13. For 12mm radiator: Secure the 12mm radiator lower locking tabs (x4).
  14. Install the locking tabs (x9) that attach the plastic grille to the radiator.
  15. Install the active grille shutter. See Active Grille Shutter (Remove and Replace).
  16. Locally connect a laptop with Toolbox 3 to the vehicle. See Toolbox (Connect and Disconnect).
  17. In Toolbox, click the Actions tab, search for "Radiator", select PROC_VC_X_RESET-RADIATOR-UA-INDEXvia Toolbox:(link), select Run, then allow the routine to complete.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Perform this step for firmware versions develop/2026.14.3 and later.
  18. On the touchscreen, select Thermal > Actions > Test Thermal Performance, then select Run and allow the routine to complete.
  19. Disconnect Toolbox and remove the laptop from the vehicle.
  20. Exit Service Mode Plus. See Service Mode Plus.
  21. Raise the LH front window and close the LH front door.