Radiator Repair: Cool down with Radiator Service
Now that spring is almost here and you are starting to think about road trips, it’s a good time to consider a radiator service. As a precautionary measure, before taking your vehicle to a mechanic for a radiator service, make some notes about the following issues:
Before starting your vehicle:
- Is your engine overheating? Make a note of “when” it actually occurs, especially if there is no visible leak and the fluid level is correct. This will help your mechanic determine the possible cause of overheating.
- How is the coolant/antifreeze level in the radiator? Don't just look inside the plastic overflow bottle, remove the radiator cap (wait until the engine is cold) and look inside. If the fluid is at the proper level, you should be able to physically see it. Schedule a radiator service to have the cooling system pressure tested for a leak if you have to add more than a pint or if you see any obvious loss on the ground or in the engine compartment,.
When the engine is idling:
- Is the cooling fan for the radiator working properly? Most cars have an electric motorized fan which cools the engine, especially at idle or lower speeds.
- Does your vehicle have an air conditioner condenser fan? The air conditioning compressor will require the cooling fan to operate at idle as long as the compressor is on, again especially at idle and low speeds.
While the engine is running at driving speed:
- Is enough coolant/anti-freeze circulating? Airflow and coolant circulation are crucial at 55 MPH. The water pump should be pumping a large amount of coolant/antifreeze throughout the cooling system.
- Is your engine overheating at normal driving speeds? Check to determine if there is a restriction in the system like a kinked radiator hose, a restricted radiator, or a stuck thermostat.
When cars overheat, the problem needs to be diagnosed as soon as possible to avoid major engine damage caused by overheating.
Need a quality radiator repair? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Care Auto by calling 507-625-8005, or go on-line at www.expresscareautomn.com for professional advice about radiator service. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
Now that spring is almost here and you are starting to think about road trips, it’s a good time to consider a radiator service. As a precautionary measure, before taking your vehicle to a mechanic for a radiator service, make some notes about the following issues:
Before starting your vehicle:
- Is your engine overheating? Make a note of “when” it actually occurs, especially if there is no visible leak and the fluid level is correct. This will help your mechanic determine the possible cause of overheating.
- How is the coolant/antifreeze level in the radiator? Don't just look inside the plastic overflow bottle, remove the radiator cap (wait until the engine is cold) and look inside. If the fluid is at the proper level, you should be able to physically see it. Schedule a radiator service to have the cooling system pressure tested for a leak if you have to add more than a pint or if you see any obvious loss on the ground or in the engine compartment,.
When the engine is idling:
- Is the cooling fan for the radiator working properly? Most cars have an electric motorized fan which cools the engine, especially at idle or lower speeds.
- Does your vehicle have an air conditioner condenser fan? The air conditioning compressor will require the cooling fan to operate at idle as long as the compressor is on, again especially at idle and low speeds.
While the engine is running at driving speed:
- Is enough coolant/anti-freeze circulating? Airflow and coolant circulation are crucial at 55 MPH. The water pump should be pumping a large amount of coolant/antifreeze throughout the cooling system.
- Is your engine overheating at normal driving speeds? Check to determine if there is a restriction in the system like a kinked radiator hose, a restricted radiator, or a stuck thermostat.
When cars overheat, the problem needs to be diagnosed as soon as possible to avoid major engine damage caused by overheating.
Need a quality radiator repair? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Care Auto by calling 507-625-8005, or go on-line at www.expresscareautomn.com for professional advice about radiator service. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
