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The radiator is not the most flashy or noticeable part of your car, but it has an important function. As a part of your car’s cooling system, the radiator functions to cool down hot coolant in your car’s engine. As the coolant flows around the engine system to keep it from overheating, the liquid can get extremely hot. It needs a way to cool off so it can recirculate and keep the engine cool.
When the radiator malfunctions, it’s likely that your car’s engine will overheat and fail. Your car’s engine already runs very hot, at almost 200 degrees Fahrenheit, so without the ability to cool down, major problems can occur.
If you see smoke coming from the radiator, this indicates that it is unable to perform its function of cooling the fluid that flows around the engine (coolant). An overheating engine is a serious issue that must be recognized and addressed immediately to avoid catastrophic damage to your car.
This article discusses the most common problems that can come up with your radiator and how to address them. Most typically, coolant flushes and replacements of parts in the radiator are the solution to each problem.
If you have a leak coming from your radiator, the most common cause is a leaky hose. However, leaks can also take place in the radiator itself, which is an even more serious problem. Because coolant is constantly running from the radiator to the engine, a high amount of pressure is created. If this pressure builds up too much, it can wreak havoc on your radiator hoses.
The hoses can come loose, allowing coolant to leak from the system which will then lead to overheating. If there is pink or green fluid leaking from under your car along with a sweet smell, your radiator is leaking coolant. To avoid problems such as this, be sure to replace your radiator hoses regularly.
It’s easy to notice a rusty exterior, but your radiator can build up rust as well as a result of all of the elements mingling in your engine. A rusty radiator can result in developing holes and then leaks, as well as other malfunctions.
If you find your car running hot, check your radiator to see if it is rusty. Outside rust should be quick to find, but rust on the inside can reveal itself through a brownish-colored coolant. When driving in cold climates, it’s especially important to check your radiator for rust. A coolant flush every 20 or 30 thousand miles is the best solution for a rusty radiator.
Another common problem with the radiator is the buildup of minerals, referred to as “gunk.” Gunk is a thick, sticky substance that clogs up your car’s engine. By-products, mineral deposits, and debris in your radiator make it harder for it to function. If you find your car is overheating often, check the radiator for gunk. The solution for clearing out gunk from your radiator is a coolant flush.
Overheating in the radiator is the usual effect of any issue with cooling systems. If you find that your car overheats while idling, however, the most common cause is a faulty or failed radiator fan. Especially in more modern vehicles, the radiator fan directs air into the cooling system to ensure that your car stays cool while idling. The best solution for a failed radiator fan is to completely replace it.
Located in Green Bay, Wisconsin with two locations off of Velp Avenue and Huron Road, Huron Automotive is Green Bay’s premier automotive repair shop. Featuring a number of services including oil changes, brake repair, tire repair, tire balancing and installation, suspension repair, and more, Huron Automotive offers a cheaper alternative to the dealership with better customer service and quality of repairs.
If you find that your radiator is experiencing problems that are affecting the rest of your car’s function, take your vehicle in to be serviced by our licensed mechanics today. Our ASE certified technicians are trained and ready to help you get the best quality of service for your car and the best deal. Rest assured that your radiator will be back up and running after our experts at Huron Automotive restore your car's condition. Call us today!
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