2026-04-15

Clean Radiator (Maintenance)

Correction code 18301000 FRT 0.96 NOTE: Unless otherwise explicitly stated in the procedure, the correction code and FRT listed above 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 you are wearing proper PPE when performing the procedure below. NOTE: See Ergonomic Precautions for safe and healthy working practices.

Procedure

  1. Place the vehicle on the 2-post lift.
  2. Open the LH front door and lower the LH front window.
  3. Remove the active grille shutter. See Active Grille Shutter (Remove and Install).
  4. Remove the locking tabs (x8) that attach the plastic grille to the radiator.
  5. Use a vacuum to clean the dirt on the radiator.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    If necessary, remove the large debris.
  6. 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.
  7. Release the upper and lower locking tabs that secure the radiator to the cooling and shroud assembly.
  8. Use an inflatable airbag to separate the radiator.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Use an inflatable airbag to raise the edge of the radiator at an angle. Be careful not to damage the surface of the radiator and the two holding mounts.
  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. Install the radiator into the cooling fan and shroud assembly.
  13. Install the locking tabs (x8) that attach the plastic grille to the radiator.
  14. Install the active grille shutter. See Active Grille Shutter (Remove and Install).
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Terminate after connecting the LV power.
  15. Unlock the vehicle gateway. See .
  16. 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)
  17. 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)
  18. Disable Service Mode. See .
  19. Install the underhood storage unit. See .
  20. Install the HEPA filter assembly. See HEPA Filter Assembly (Remove and Replace).
  21. Raise the LH front window and close the LH front door.
  22. Remove the vehicle from the lift.