When Should You Replace Your Radiator?
Why Is Your Radiator Important?
Your car radiator is an important part of your vehicle. This cooling parts work to keep your car from overheating. Your engine generates a lot of heat, and if it is left untreated, it can cause your vehicle to overheat. Overheating can severely damage your vehicle. Coolant is used to prevent this issue, and it goes through the car’s engine block and into the radiator. Once the coolant goes through the radiator, it passes through metal fins. This allows the hot air from the vehicle to be released to the outdoors. Many car radiators have a fan that allows the air to move more efficiently.
Signs that You Need to Replace the Radiator
Your radiator will exhibit some signs when it is time for a car radiator replacement. Here are some of the things that you should watch for:
- Steam. If you see any kind of steam coming from the hood of your car while you are driving down the road, your radiator is not functioning properly. You will need to pull over as soon as possible. Overheating can cause permanent decay to your car engine.
- Temperature gauge. Periodically check your temperature gauge. If it is reading too hot, or if it is rising rapidly, you may have an issue with your radiator. The gauge measures the coolant heat, and when it rises, it is a sign of an issue with your radiator.
- Rust. If you see rust on your radiator, it is time to replacing these cooling parts. Rust can create blockages throughout the system that will block air, and not allow sufficient cooling airflow.
- Debris. Look for any sign of brown debris. If you see any, this can keep the radiator from functioning properly. If your radiator is over the age of 15, you may see this issue more. You will want to get aftermarket auto parts to help fix your radiator to ensure that your vehicle lasts a long time.
Common Radiator Issues
There are several different issues that you can see in car radiators that will require a car radiator replacement.
- Clogged or leaking radiator core.
- A broken radiator fan.
- Leaking coolant tank or lines.
- Rust or corrosion of the radiator.
If you notice any of the above issues with your radiator, you will want to do an inspection of your car’s radiator system. Take your time, and make sure that you look the radiator over well. In some cases, the leak may be small, and if you go through the vehicle too fast, you may miss it. Once you have found the issue, you will want to see about fixing the issue. If you are handy with tools, and wish to fix it yourself, it is relatively simple to do. The best thing you can do is to find aftermarket auto parts. This will allow you to save money on your radiator.
Your radiator is important to ensure the proper functionality of your car. It is important to address any issues that you may see with it as quickly as possible. It is also a great idea to make sure that you periodically inspect your radiator for any issues that may come up. Remember, if you see any of the above issues, it is time for an immediate replacement.
*Use at your own discretion, this content is for educational purposes only. You may call us or contact us if you would like assistance on ordering any auto parts for your vehicle or auto shop.