The radiator is an important part of the cooling system. It stores the coolant and cools off the coolant once it is circulated through the engine. On average, a radiator will last eight to 10 years. If you take excellent care of the cooling system, this will help the radiator last longer. Below, we are going to list signs that your radiator is bad. Bring your vehicle to our shop as soon as possible.
Coolant Leaks
An old radiator can be corroded on the inside. Consequently, this corrosion it’s through the bottom of the radiator. As such, you will end up with coolant leaking on your garage floor because it is leaking out of the bottom of the radiator. Depending on the extent of the coolant leak, your automobile may or may not overheat when you drive it. A leaking radiator needs to be replaced.
Orange Coolant
You will definitely know that the radiator is corroded if the coolant has turned orange. The reason why the coolant is this color is that it is filled with rust. Even if the radiator is not leaking, a corroded radiator needs to be replaced. The corrosion can clog the radiator and prevent the flow of coolant through the engine. The corrosion can also break free and travel with the fluid to clog the radiator hoses.
Blocked Inlets
The radiator keeps the coolant cool by utilizing outside air. It has inlets that are called fins to draw the air over the coolant. These fins can be blocked by dirt and debris that makes its way through your vehicle’s grille. The radiator is located behind the grille, so it is easy for it to clog the radiator fins.
Damaged Inlets
Unfortunately, the fins can also get damaged by road debris. If this happens, they may be unable to draw air in because the dents have closed the fins. Naturally, if the coolant temperature is not reduced in the radiator, you will have hot coolant circulating through the engine all the time.
Overheating
Consequently, this and the other problems discussed above will make your engine overheat all the time. It is important that you avoid driving your automobile when the engine is running too hot. Operating the vehicle can cause serious engine damage and exhaust system damage.
Call us today to set up a service visit if you suspect that you need a new radiator. We will inspect the cooling system, including the radiator, and recommend the necessary repairs.