When a vehicle overheats, it’s a sign that you need a radiator repair. Because the radiator is the main component of a vehicle’s cooling system, it’s important to take this seriously and deal with the problem immediately to avoid bigger problems like having the engine cylinder head crack. It’s also important to be proactive and find the best service at the best price before you’re faced with a major problem.
Signs of Potential Radiator Repair Problems
There are a few obvious signs of a troubled radiator, leaking coolant for example. However, other symptoms are harder to detect. Here are some things to look for that could be warning signs of a radiator disaster.
Leaking
As mentioned above, one of the most obvious signs of a radiator issue is finding a puddle of liquid under the engine when the car isn’t in use. A leaking radiator calls for immediate attention because it can cause significant damage.
Low on Coolant
If you’re constantly needing to refill your coolant tank or the “low coolant” light comes on, there may be a leak in the radiator. Don’t just keep refilling your coolant, take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic to have it properly diagnosed.
Overheating
The most common sign of a radiator repair problem is overheating. Even though the radiator may not have completely failed at this point, it’s important to have it checked out immediately. If the problem isn’t addressed right away, the engine will continue to overheat, eventually causing the vehicle to break down. If this happens, the radiator repair will be more extensive.
Sludge
Coolant is normally red, green or yellow, but when the radiator is going bad, contaminants end up discoloring the fluid making it a rusty color. When this happens, it turns into sludge, and the fluid won’t be able to efficiently cool the engine because it can’t drain properly. Sludge in the radiator, typically means that the radiator repair will involve replacing it because the sludge can cause extensive damage to both the transmission and engine.
Services
Radiator repair and maintenance is crucial to the overall health of your vehicle. The most common radiator repair services involve a simple fluid exchange or part replacement. Most vehicle manufacturers advise replacing coolant at regular intervals. As mentioned above, in more severe cases, a radiator may need to be replaced. Additional problems can involve replacing radiator hoses and the water pump, key components of your vehicle’s cooling system. If the water pump and hoses aren’t functioning properly, you risk overheating the engine.
Best Service, Best Price
Before you have a radiator repair carried out, do yourself a favor and make sure to find an auto repair shop that has been certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) – they’re the best of the best. Also, find out what type of guarantee they offer on their repair work. Warranties can differ between shops, so ask them about it ahead of time. It’s also a good idea to read reviews online. Shop around and then call us.
If you think you may need radiator repair, make sure you have a trusted mechanic. Call or schedule an appointment today.
