Do You Know What Causes A Radiator To Go Bad?
If you’re still planning that summer road trip, make sure that your car’s radiator and cooling system are in tip-top condition. A properly functioning radiator is vital to keep your car running and prevent major damage to the engine and transmission.
So what causes a radiator to go bad? Here are three common problems that can lead to a costly radiator repair:
- Leaking Antifreeze. A puddle under the car where you park that is green, pink, or orange, or an unusual sweet smell, are signs that either the radiator unit or a hose has developed a leak. If the level of water and coolant gets too low, major damage can occur to the engine and transmission.
- Overheating Engine. When the coolant level drops too low, there is not enough flowing through the engine to keep it cooled and you could see smoke coming from under the hood. If the temperature gauge rises to the hot zone, or if you see a warning light on the instrument panel, pull over to the side of the road as soon as safely possible. It isn’t safe to keep driving, so call a tow truck to the nearest auto shop.
- Deposits of Sludge. Sludge will build up in the radiator from contamination in the coolant, dirt, or engine particles, turning the coolant into a dark rusty or oil color.
The radiator service described below should be performed on a regular basis:
- Check the fluid level—Either top off or have the radiator flushed as needed,
- Look for signs of corrosion and oxidation that could develop into cracks,
- Inspect the thermostat and fan to make sure they are working properly,
- Inspect all the belts and hoses for cracks that could leak coolant.
Remember: Just as with all vehicle systems and components, catching problems while they are still small can be repaired with relatively little expense or time. Radiator repair should only be performed by a certified mechanic:
Need to know more about what causes a radiator to go bad? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Rebel Automotive to schedule an appointment for radiator repair. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Henderson, NV, Las Vegas, NV, and North Las Vegas, NV.
If you’re still planning that summer road trip, make sure that your car’s radiator and cooling system are in tip-top condition. A properly functioning radiator is vital to keep your car running and prevent major damage to the engine and transmission.
So what causes a radiator to go bad? Here are three common problems that can lead to a costly radiator repair:
- Leaking Antifreeze. A puddle under the car where you park that is green, pink, or orange, or an unusual sweet smell, are signs that either the radiator unit or a hose has developed a leak. If the level of water and coolant gets too low, major damage can occur to the engine and transmission.
- Overheating Engine. When the coolant level drops too low, there is not enough flowing through the engine to keep it cooled and you could see smoke coming from under the hood. If the temperature gauge rises to the hot zone, or if you see a warning light on the instrument panel, pull over to the side of the road as soon as safely possible. It isn’t safe to keep driving, so call a tow truck to the nearest auto shop.
- Deposits of Sludge. Sludge will build up in the radiator from contamination in the coolant, dirt, or engine particles, turning the coolant into a dark rusty or oil color.
The radiator service described below should be performed on a regular basis:
- Check the fluid level—Either top off or have the radiator flushed as needed,
- Look for signs of corrosion and oxidation that could develop into cracks,
- Inspect the thermostat and fan to make sure they are working properly,
- Inspect all the belts and hoses for cracks that could leak coolant.
Remember: Just as with all vehicle systems and components, catching problems while they are still small can be repaired with relatively little expense or time. Radiator repair should only be performed by a certified mechanic:
Need to know more about what causes a radiator to go bad? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Rebel Automotive to schedule an appointment for radiator repair. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Henderson, NV, Las Vegas, NV, and North Las Vegas, NV.
