If you’re a car owner, there’s a good chance you’ll at some point have to deal with a radiator issue. Radiators are one of those components that can start acting up without much warning, so it’s pretty important to be able to spot the signs that your radiator is on its way out.
In this blog post, Brownsville Toyota will outline the most common symptoms of a failing radiator so that you can take action before it’s too late! Stay safe out there on the open road!
Car Radiator: The Basics You Should Know
Your car’s radiator is one of the most important components in keeping your engine cool. The radiator houses a series of small tubes that circulate coolant throughout your engine, absorbing heat. When the coolant becomes too hot, it flows back into the radiator, where it is cooled off by air passing through the grille.
Now that you know how your radiator works, let’s take a look at some of the most common symptoms that indicate it might be on its way out:
Common Symptoms of a Failing Radiator
-
Overheating Engine
An overheating car engine is one of the most obvious signs that your radiator isn’t working properly. If you notice your engine’s temperature climbing higher than usual, or if the temperature needle is entering the red zone, pull over and turn off your engine immediately. Continuing to operate an overheating engine can cause serious damage to not only the engine, but it can turn your car into an acme kit of sorts.
-
Coolant Leaks
Another symptom of a failing radiator is coolant leaks. If you notice a greenish-yellow fluid leaking from under your car, it’s likely coolant. A failing water pump can also cause coolant leaks, so it’s important to have your vehicle checked by an adept auto mechanic as soon as possible.
-
Steam from Under the Hood
If steam is coming from under your vehicle’s hood, it’s a sure sign that something is wrong with your radiator. Again, this usually indicates an overheated engine, so pull over and turn off your engine immediately.
-
Sludge in the Radiator
If you notice sludge or debris in your radiator, it indicates that it needs to be flushed and replaced. Over time, radiators can become clogged with dirt, rust, and other debris, leading to overheating and engine damage.
-
White Exhaust
The lines for coolant & engine oil are pretty much side by side in the engine block. When the radiator lines get corroded, there is a high probability of coolant leaking into the oil grooves and contaminating the combustion process. That results in white exhaust. And that is never a good sign for both radiator & the engine.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your vehicle checked by a mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring these warning signs could lead to more serious problems down the road, so don’t take any chances.
Here’s How Brownsville Toyota Can Help You
Brownsville Toyota, serving Brownsville, TX, has a great service department that can look at your radiator and ensure it’s in good working condition. Our highly trained technicians will be able to tell you if your car radiator needs to be replaced and can even do the job for you.
If you require a new radiator or any other automotive service, don’t hesitate to schedule a service today. We’ll be happy to help you get back on the road in no time!
Connect with us
