Wondering What are the Signs of a Bad Radiator?
Before trying to figure out if your radiator is bad, you should first understand the purpose of the radiator. To put it simply, the radiator’s job is to keep the engine from overheating. As you probably are aware, the engine produces heat while it is running. This heat is absorbed by the coolant circulating through the engine, then passes it through the radiator as it cools off. The coolant is then circulated back to the engine where the cycle starts again. Because the radiator is the major component of the cooling system, it is important that you keep up with regular service so that you don’t get stranded on your summer road trip looking for an emergency radiator repair.
An important vehicle maintenance issue to take care of before heading out on your summer road trip is the radiator, especially if you have not yet had it inspected after surviving winter’s harsh temperatures. Make sure there are no cracks in the radiator, which could leak coolant, which can then lead to extensive damage to the engine and transmission.
So if you’re wondering what are the signs of a bad radiator, here are five common problems that could occur:
- Engine overheating – There is not a sufficient flow of coolant to the engine.
- Leaking coolant – There may be cracks in the radiator unit.
- Cracked hose – The connecting hose from the radiator to the engine has developed a crack.
- Thermostat Failure – A failing thermostat prevents the flowing coolant to the engine.
- A smoking muffler – The head gasket may be damaged from a hot engine.
What does radiator repair consist of?
- Make sure the coolant (radiator fluid) is at the correct level.
- Check the radiator cap to make sure it is tight and not cracked. It keeps the entire coolant chamber pressurized.
- Clean sludge out of the radiator (about twice a year).
- Have a radiator flush and fill (at least once a year).
Wondering what are the signs of a bad radiator? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Rebel Automotive for more information on how do you know if you need a new radiator and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Henderson, NV, Las Vegas, NV, and North Las Vegas, NV.
Before trying to figure out if your radiator is bad, you should first understand the purpose of the radiator. To put it simply, the radiator’s job is to keep the engine from overheating. As you probably are aware, the engine produces heat while it is running. This heat is absorbed by the coolant circulating through the engine, then passes it through the radiator as it cools off. The coolant is then circulated back to the engine where the cycle starts again. Because the radiator is the major component of the cooling system, it is important that you keep up with regular service so that you don’t get stranded on your summer road trip looking for an emergency radiator repair.
An important vehicle maintenance issue to take care of before heading out on your summer road trip is the radiator, especially if you have not yet had it inspected after surviving winter’s harsh temperatures. Make sure there are no cracks in the radiator, which could leak coolant, which can then lead to extensive damage to the engine and transmission.
So if you’re wondering what are the signs of a bad radiator, here are five common problems that could occur:
- Engine overheating – There is not a sufficient flow of coolant to the engine.
- Leaking coolant – There may be cracks in the radiator unit.
- Cracked hose – The connecting hose from the radiator to the engine has developed a crack.
- Thermostat Failure – A failing thermostat prevents the flowing coolant to the engine.
- A smoking muffler – The head gasket may be damaged from a hot engine.
What does radiator repair consist of?
- Make sure the coolant (radiator fluid) is at the correct level.
- Check the radiator cap to make sure it is tight and not cracked. It keeps the entire coolant chamber pressurized.
- Clean sludge out of the radiator (about twice a year).
- Have a radiator flush and fill (at least once a year).
Wondering what are the signs of a bad radiator? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Rebel Automotive for more information on how do you know if you need a new radiator and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Henderson, NV, Las Vegas, NV, and North Las Vegas, NV.
