Your vehicle’s radiator keeps the engine cool and prevents it from overheating. The radiator can only perform effectively if all the components of the cooling system work as they should. In the following article, we will discuss why it is vital not to ignore the warning signs and get a radiator repair as soon as possible.
Time for a Radiator Repair? 5 Reasons Not to Ignore the Signs
1. Leaks Will Cause Overheating
A common sign of radiator problems is leaking. When you see a red or green puddle under your car, it’s a sure sign that there is a coolant leak. Radiator leaks are caused by cracks or degrading or loose hoses, which will allow the fluid to escape.
Coolant runs between the radiator and the hot engine. This creates pressure which in time will affect the radiator hoses. When there is a leak, it will ultimately lead to overheating. To solve the problem, your technician will have to replace the radiator hoses.
2. Contaminated Coolant Will Clog Up the Radiator
When the coolant changes from a healthy red or green color into a brown, oily sludge, it’s a sign that the fluid has been contaminated. This sludge will clog up the radiator and prevent it from cooling down the engine. In turn, this will lead to overheating and engine problems. A coolant flush is needed to get rid of all the buildup and clear the system.
3. Rust Will Lead to Corrosion
With the combination of liquid, air, and metal, rust is bound to set in, and if it’s not sorted out fast, it could damage the cooling system and get into the engine. When a radiator becomes rusty, the rust mixes with the coolant a thick sludge is formed. This can lead to corrosion.
There are two ways to see if rust is setting in. You will see the rust on the outside of the radiator. The coolant will also have a brownish color. The radiator will have to be flushed, and the coolant will be replaced.
4. Overheating Will Occur When Idling or Driving
If you notice that the temperature gauge spikes when your vehicle is idling, it could be caused by a broken or failing radiator fan. The fan draws air in to cool down the radiator while driving at low speeds or idling. When the fan stops working, your vehicle’s temperature will rise when in traffic or waiting at an intersection.
5. Overheating will Cause White Steam or Smoke
The white smoke could be coming from under the hood or from the tailpipe. The smoke is caused by an internal coolant leak and will lead to your vehicle overheating. Either way, pull over immediately when it’s safe and wait for your vehicle to cool down. This is a serious problem, and our best advice is to contact your technician straight away and ask for assistance.
A faulty radiator that is not fixed immediately could cause extensive damage that will be expensive to repair. Contact Rath Auto Resources today. One of our expert technicians will do a thorough radiator inspection and ensure that your vehicle’s cooling system is in excellent working order.
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