2026-04-16

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.

  • 2026-04-16: 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. Place the vehicle in Service Mode by using the touchscreen. See Service Mode (Enable and Disable).
  3. Press brake pedal to turn on drive rails
  4. Set the air suspension ride height to “Very High”.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Via center display > Controls > Suspension > ''Very High''
  5. Turn the steering wheel fully to the right.
  6. Remove the underhood storage unit. See Underhood Storage Unit (Remove and Install).
  7. Remove the front fascia. See Fascia Assembly - Front (Remove and Install).
  8. Remove the active grille shutter. See Active Grille Shutter (Remove and Replace).
  9. Remove the locking tabs (x9) that attach the plastic grille to the radiator.
  10. Use a vacuum to clean the dirt on the radiator.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    If necessary, remove the large debris.
  11. 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 wear proper PPE for protection, such as a mask, safety glasses, etc.
  12. 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.
  13. 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.
  14. 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.
  15. Clean the bottom of the cooling fan.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Avoid moving debris onto the fan.
  16. Inspect the bottom of the cooling fan for debris.
  17. Remove the inflatable airbag.
  18. For 21mm radiator: Secure the 21mm radiator lower locking tabs (x4).
  19. For 12mm radiator: Secure the 12mm radiator lower locking tabs (x4).
  20. Install the locking tabs (x9) that attach the plastic grille to the radiator.
  21. Install the active grille shutter. See Active Grille Shutter (Remove and Replace).
  22. Install the front fascia. See Fascia Assembly - Front (Remove and Install).
  23. Install the underhood storage unit. See Underhood Storage Unit (Remove and Install).
  24. Unlock the vehicle gateway. See Gateway (Unlock).
  25. Perform the following routine using Service Mode or Toolbox (see 0005 - Service Modes): TEST-SELF_VCFRONT_X_THERMAL-PERFORMANCEvia Service Mode:Thermal ➜ Actions ➜ Test Thermal Performancevia Service Mode Plus:
    • Drive Inverter ➜ Front Drive Inverter Replacement ➜ Thermal System Test
    • Drive Inverter ➜ Rear Drive Inverter Replacement ➜ Thermal System Test
    • Drive Inverter ➜ Rear Left Drive Inverter Replacement ➜ Thermal System Test
    • Drive Inverter ➜ Rear Right Drive Inverter Replacement ➜ Thermal System Test
    • Drive Unit ➜ Front Drive Unit Replacement ➜ Thermal System Test
    • Drive Unit ➜ Rear Drive Unit Replacement ➜ Thermal System Test
    via Toolbox:(link)
  26. Perform the following routine using Service Mode or Toolbox (see 0005 - Service Modes): TEST-SELF_VCRIGHT_X_HVAC-PERFORMANCEvia Service Mode:
    • Thermal ➜ Actions ➜ Test HVAC Performance
    • Thermal ➜ HVAC ➜ HVAC Performance Test
    • Thermal ➜ Actions ➜ Test HVAC Performance
    via Toolbox:(link)
  27. Disable Service Mode. See Service Mode (Enable and Disable).
  28. Hold the upper B-pillar button in the down position to manually calibrate the LH and RH falcon wing doors.
  29. Turn the steering wheel back to center.
  30. Set the air suspension ride height to Medium.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Using center display > Suspension > Medium/Standard
  31. Raise the LH front window and close the LH front door.