5 Signs of a Bad Radiator
Well, temperatures are rising as we approach the middle of summer. An important maintenance issue to take care of before heading out on a summer road trip is the radiator, especially if you have not yet had it inspected after winter’s cold harsh temperatures. As the coolant in the radiator freezes and expands, it puts a lot of stress on the radiator. This stress can result in cracking, leading to leaks, leading to damage in the transmission.
Here are five signs of a bad radiator that you should watch out for:
- An engine that keeps overheating – This could be caused by the flow of coolant restricted due to the air inside the cooling system, clogged hoses, or too low of coolant level.
- Leaking fluid from the radiator – There may be cracks in the radiator unit caused by freezing and expanding of fluid.
- Brittle and cracked hoses – The radiator is connected to the engine by a hose for easy flow of coolant. Over time, these hoses can become brittle and crack.
- Thermostat Failure – If the thermostat fails, there will be no flow of coolant and the car will overheat.
- Smoke coming from the Muffler – This could mean the head gasket has been damaged from an overheating engine.
What can you do to take care of your radiator?
- Keep the coolant, or radiator fluid, filled at all times.
- Keep the radiator cap on tight; it’s designed to keep the entire coolant chamber pressurized.
- Have the radiator cleaned out about twice a year
- Have your radiator flushed and filled on an annual basis.
Need to know more about the signs of a bad radiator? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about radiator service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
Well, temperatures are rising as we approach the middle of summer. An important maintenance issue to take care of before heading out on a summer road trip is the radiator, especially if you have not yet had it inspected after winter’s cold harsh temperatures. As the coolant in the radiator freezes and expands, it puts a lot of stress on the radiator. This stress can result in cracking, leading to leaks, leading to damage in the transmission.
Here are five signs of a bad radiator that you should watch out for:
- An engine that keeps overheating – This could be caused by the flow of coolant restricted due to the air inside the cooling system, clogged hoses, or too low of coolant level.
- Leaking fluid from the radiator – There may be cracks in the radiator unit caused by freezing and expanding of fluid.
- Brittle and cracked hoses – The radiator is connected to the engine by a hose for easy flow of coolant. Over time, these hoses can become brittle and crack.
- Thermostat Failure – If the thermostat fails, there will be no flow of coolant and the car will overheat.
- Smoke coming from the Muffler – This could mean the head gasket has been damaged from an overheating engine.
What can you do to take care of your radiator?
- Keep the coolant, or radiator fluid, filled at all times.
- Keep the radiator cap on tight; it’s designed to keep the entire coolant chamber pressurized.
- Have the radiator cleaned out about twice a year
- Have your radiator flushed and filled on an annual basis.
Need to know more about the signs of a bad radiator? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about radiator service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
