If your radiator has been in use for more than 10 years, it may be time to replace the radiator. The radiator will last for about 10 years. This section of the cooling system stores coolant and lowers the temperature to reduce engine temperature. Your engine should not exceed 220 degrees Fahrenheit. You may notice signs in your radiator that it is getting worse. Here are the signs.
Coolant Leaks
You will notice spots or puddles under the car’s engine if the radiator is leaking coolant. This could also indicate that your water pump may be leaking. Corrosion can cause the radiator to leak. The coolant will leak out of the radiator’s bottom when this happens.
Rusty Coolant
If your radiator gets corroded, and there is rust in the coolant, you know that it is going bad. Even if there is no leak, it is important to replace the corroded radiator because it will eventually leak. In the meantime, the water pump will circulate rust through the cooling system and cause additional and unnecessary damage to the system.
Clogged Fins
The radiator is responsible for keeping the coolant chilled, as we have already mentioned. The radiator does this by using fins which allow air to flow above the coolant. A fan is also used. Your engine can overheat if the fan stops working properly. Dirt and other debris can build up in the radiator’s fins. The radiator will likely be at its end by the time it becomes clogged.
Damaged Fins
Dirt and other debris can get into the engine and cause damage to the fins. We cannot replace the fins by themselves. The radiator will also need to be replaced if the inlets have been damaged. If the fins have been damaged, it is possible that the radiator may also be damaged by dirt or debris.
Overheating
If the radiator is damaged, then your engine will overheat. This is a fact that cannot be avoided. The engine temperature will rise to the red zone regardless of whether the radiator has a leak or is damaged. Driving your automobile with an overheating engine can damage the engine severely. In fact, you could crack the head gasket or the engine block.
If you think your car may need a radiator replacement, call us now. We’ll schedule an appointment that works with your schedule so we can get you in and out of our shop as soon as possible.