When you hear the word “radiator”, do you picture yourself stranded on the side of the road with steam coming out from under the hood of your car like in the movies? Hopefully, this doesn’t actually happen to you, but if it does then the auto repair mechanics at Liberty Garage can help.
The radiator is what cools the engine and keeps your car from overheating. If it isn’t performing its job then it can cause damage to the engine and require repairs. Don’t wait to have your radiator checked out by a mechanic until you end up like a character in a movie. Learn more about your car’s radiator, what to do if it isn’t keeping its cool, and how auto repair mechanics can help.
What Radiators Do
The cooling system for your car includes the radiator, which helps keep your engine at safe temperatures so it can function at its best. A radiator is a complex machine that passes coolant and air through the engine to keep it cool. Think of a radiator like the heart, an organ that pumps what is needed into the engine and also pumps hot coolant away. The idea is that it passes something cool into the engine to stabilize the temperature, while also passing heat out of your car.
Modern car radiators are generally made of aluminum which is very durable. However, sometimes coolant can build up in the tubes and cause clogging and other problems with the fluid that keeps your car cool. Regular maintenance checks on your car will include monitoring the fluid levels and inspecting the radiator for common issues. If it has been a while since you have had your car inspected, visit auto repair mechanics.
How to Know If Your Radiator Overheats
Steam pouring out from under the hood is one of the more dramatic indicators that your engine is overheating and the radiator may be the culprit. However, there are other signs that a radiator may require maintenance. The first indicator something may be wrong is when the “check engine” light comes on. Auto repair mechanics can quickly diagnose the reason for the check engine light and determine what type of services are needed.
The cooling system in your car is complex and it is important to seek out auto repair mechanics who are skilled and knowledgeable about how to identify where the problem originated. If the “check engine” light hasn’t come on but you notice the heat in your car isn’t managing to warm up your car like normal on a cold day, this can also be an indication that something with the radiator is amiss. If the radiator isn’t able to process the hot air into your car like you normally would expect, then there may be a clog or a leak. When you notice your car is acting differently than normal, the safest course of action is often to check with auto repair mechanics.
What to Do When Your Radiator Breaks
If you are at all concerned that something about your car isn’t running like it normally is, then it is best to be cautious and consult with an auto repair mechanic. Taking a proactive approach to servicing your car can help identify any issues early on and prevent high costs associated with continued damage. A thorough inspection from a qualified mechanic will diagnose the issues and communicate what the next steps should be so that your engine is running smoothly.
There are several types of radiator issues and you will want auto repair mechanics who will treat you and your car with respect by determining what is needed to keep you safe and your car functioning optimally. Depending on the type of radiator issue, your mechanic may be able to replace a specific part of the entire radiator may need to be replaced. If you suspect an issue with your radiator, it is best not to drive the car as it can be dangerous if the engine were to overheat.
Common Radiator Issues
Some of the most common radiator problems are due to overheating, leaks, and blockages. Sometimes it is the radiator itself that is faulty, while other times it is other parts of the cooling system that are causing the problem.
Overheating
The most common problem people think of when it comes to radiators is overheating. The radiator, thermostat, fan, and water pump work together to keep the engine cool and in an optimal range. If the thermostat is faulty then the radiator and water pump may overcompensate to adjust to an incorrect temperature. If the radiator or water pump breaks then the appropriate amount of coolant isn’t circulated and the engine will overheat. If the cooling fan breaks, then the engine can also overheat.
Leaks
If you notice wet spots underneath your car after it has been parked for a while, this might signify there is a leak somewhere. Radiator leaks tend to come from leaks in the hoses that carry the coolant, though the radiator itself can also leak. Coolant and antifreeze on the ground underneath your car will look different than water on the ground and can sometimes have a yellow or green color to it. Report any potential leaks to your mechanic so they can take a look before the problem becomes more serious.
Blockages
The series of tubes or hoses that carry the coolant can also become blocked or obstructed, causing a backup of fluids. Fluid blockages may affect the radiator’s ability to properly cool the engine and a clogged radiator may need to be flushed. Additionally, if the tubes that carry the heat away from the engine become clogged with bugs, leaves, or other debris, the radiator will not be able to lower the temperature of the engine as expected.
What you can do?
Auto repair mechanics are experts in taking care of your car’s radiator and making sure your engine is running optimally. We offer quality radiator service and repair along with the customer service you deserve. If you find acting out a scene from a movie on the side of the road with a steaming engine, we work with a variety of respectable Houston towing companies so you and your car can arrive safely at our shop. Let the auto repair mechanics inspect, regularly service, and maintain your car’s radiator and engine so you can stay safe on the road ahead.
