Jul 21, 2022
Warning Signs Your Car Radiator Needs Repair: How To Tell If You're At Risk For A Breakdown

When your car’s radiator fails, your vehicle will overheat, and you could have a severe breakdown. Your car’s radiator cools the engine by circulating coolant through the engine block. The coolant picks up heat from the engine and then carries it away to be dissipated. If the radiator isn’t working correctly, the coolant can’t do its job, and the engine will overheat. That’s why it’s essential to identify the warning signs that your radiator needs repair. Mike Patton Honda will discuss common warning signs that indicate a radiator problem. We’ll also provide some tips on preventing radiator failure.

1. Engine Overheats

It is the most obvious sign that something is wrong with your radiator. If you notice that your engine temperature gauge is higher than usual, or see steam coming from under the hood, pull over and turn off the engine immediately. Overheating can cause severe damage to your engine.

2. Leaking Coolant

A leak in the radiator can cause your car to overheat. Check for leaks by looking for wet spots on the ground underneath your car. If the vehicle sees any leaks, take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible. Driving with a leaking radiator can cause the engine to overheat and seize, leading to expensive repairs. If you need repair, have your car towed to a repair shop to fix the problem.

3. Clogged Radiator

If your vehicle is overheating and there are no leaks, the problem may be a clogged radiator. A clogged radiator can’t effectively cool your engine, causing it to overheat. Take your car to a workshop for radiator flushing and cleaning service. Depending on your manufacturer’s recommendations, you should wash and refill your radiator every 30,000 to 50,000 miles.

4. Other Signs and Prevention Tips

Other signs that your radiator needs repair include coolant leaks, strange noises coming from the engine bay, and poor heater performance. Don’t wait to take your car to a mechanic if you notice any warning signs. Radiator problems can cause severe damage to your engine if they’re not fixed promptly. Monitor your engine temperature gauge and coolant level. Also, check for leaks regularly to catch any problems early. Following these tips can avoid a costly breakdown or even an accident.

Ending Note

Radiator problems can be a real headache, but with some knowledge of the warning signs when your radiator needs repair, you can head off any major issues before they cause a breakdown. At Mike Patton Honda serving Glenn, GA, we want to help our customers stay safe on the road and avoid costly repairs. That’s why we offer car safety inspection services to help you keep your car in top condition and ready to take on whatever challenges come. For extra peace of mind, buy Honda certified vehicle with lifetime warranty coverage from us.