You are probably aware that your car’s radiator is a crucial component of its cooling system, but how can you tell when something is wrong? Most drivers cannot recognize the warning signals of a malfunctioning radiator.
In this blog post, experts at Cutter Buick GMC will discuss the signs of a faulty radiator. If you notice any of these signs, call a professional right away!
How does a car radiator work?
The radiator in your car is tasked with cooling and circulating engine coolant. Anti-freeze mixes with water to create a coolant, pumped through your engine block to absorb heat. The fluid then travels to the radiator, where it is cooled by air flowing through the radiator’s fins.
Signs of a bad radiator:
Sign 01: Your engine is overheating:
The most easily identifiable sign of a bad radiator is an overheating engine. Pull over on the safe side if your vehicle’s temperature gauge is reading higher than usual or if the needle enters the red zone.
Sign 02: You see coolant leaks:
Another sign that your radiator might be going bad is if you see coolant leaks. These leaks can be either internally or externally. If the leak is external, you’ll likely often see a bright yellow, green, or red liquid coolant on the ground beneath your vehicle. If the leak is internal, you might notice steam coming from under your hood or a decrease in coolant levels with no visible leaks.
Any leak should be fixed as quickly as possible, regardless of the source. Its sources can be the radiator, a hose, or an issue with the engine block. Determine the source of the leak with a pressure test.
Sign 03: Sludge builds up in your radiator
Your radiator’s coolant should be a vibrant shade of yellow, green, or red. Contaminants have accumulated in your radiator if the coolant looks discolored, rusty, or oil-colored.
Over time, rust, scale, and other debris can build up in your radiator. This build-up is called sludge, and it’s bad news for your car. Sludge can cause a decrease in cooling efficiency as well as clog coolant passages. If you notice your radiator isn’t cooling as well as it used to, have it checked for sludge.
Sign 04: Low coolant levels
You probably have a coolant leak if you continuously top up the coolant in your radiator. Bring your car to a reputable technician for a quick evaluation if you frequently need to top off your coolant.
Final thought:
Take your automobile to an expert to examine the radiator if you notice any of the above signs. Don’t wait until it’s too late and your engine overheats – that can cause severe damage. You risk losing your car’s warranty if you ignore the warning signals of a failing radiator, so it’s better to catch the issue as soon as possible.
Your Buick or GMC is a unique car that should only receive the best maintenance. You’ll receive the best from Cutter Buick GMC, serving Waipahu, Hawaii.
We are available to assist you with any vehicle needs.
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