Function Of A Radiator & Maintenance Tips

The engine’s cooling system is one of the essential features of a vehicle. The purpose of the cooling system is to keep an engine running at optimal temperatures. The radiator is responsible for cooling down the antifreeze/coolant that runs through a vehicle’s motor. If a radiator fails, it could result in engine failure. It is because the motor will overheat from the friction of the movable parts.

A radiator is made up of small fins and tubes that run through it. The coolant flows through the tubes, and the heat escapes through the fins. A radiator inspection can indicate if there is any damage to the exterior of the radiator or if there are any leaks.

The most common radiator problem experienced is leaking. Leaks can occur if there is any damage done to the fins or tubes of the radiator. Leaks can occur when you do not have enough fluid circulating through the system, which will lead to an engine overheating. If a radiator fails ultimately it won’t cool down the fluid and only will be recycling hot solutions through your engine block.

One sign your radiator might not be operating accurately is if your temp gauge keeps rising. Apparently, other problems could contribute to your engine’s temperature to continue rising such as a bad thermostat. But if the radiator is leaking or spraying fluid, it is a sure fire sign that it needs to be replaced. Radiator repair or replacement is vital to keep your engine’s cooling system working properly.

Is there anything you can do to prolong the life of your radiator? The first thing you can do is make sure your fluid levels are correct. The next is to consider having an engine coolant flush. A coolant flush will eliminate any debris that might be flowing through the cooling system. Sludge is also possible if oil gets mixed with coolant or if dirt gets into the system. If your vehicle is overheating or you notice a leak in the radiator, don’t wait to get it replaced. Ryan GMW can quickly restore your radiator or perform maintenance on your cooling system.

7 Radiator Tips You Need To Know

The radiator is one of the principal components of your car’s cooling system. A properly functioning heater will help maintain cooler temperatures that will help keep your engine’s temp in check. If the radiator fails, it will spell disaster for your motor, because it keeps the internal components at a proper operating temperature. So it is important to know what you should do to keep your radiator operating properly. Below are seven tips you need to know to help keep your vital component of your car’s cooling system running smoothly.

Check Your Coolant Levels

As with all the fluids in your wheels, the coolant level is one you should always have checked. Coolant levels are just as important as oil levels. If your vehicle doesn’t have enough coolant, it will struggle to keep your engine cool. It is because the cooling system is a pressurized one, and without proper amounts of fluid it won’t create the same amount of pressure. It is recommended that you should check your coolant the same time you check your oil.

Keep the Cap on Tightly

While it might seem rather simple, having your radiator cap securely tightened is one of the easiest tips to make sure is done. If for any reason you have to fill your coolant, make sure the cap is tightened and secure and is on properly. As mentioned it is a pressurized system, and if the cap isn’t secure, you will end up with coolant boiling over and onto everything in the engine bay. It is not only messy but if you run your vehicle after this has happened your car can potentially run hot. If this happens, you might do damage to the engine itself.

Never, Ever, is Open the Radiator Cap When Your Vehicle Hot

If your coolant level is low, or you get a message in your vehicle saying “low coolant,” you must fill your engine. But before filling it, let your engine temp cool off. You never want to open the radiator cap when it is hot. It can lead to injury. Not only is the coolant at extremely high temps but it also can potentially spray. One of the best things you can do if you are running low on coolant is to wait until overnight and fill the next day before the vehicle has been running.

Have an Annual Flush Done

An annual coolant flush is when your coolant is completely drained, then washed to clean out the system. After which, a fresh new coolant is put into your cooling system; it is an excellent idea for those with high mileage or that do lots of driving. It is recommended that you should at the very least have this service done annually.

Inspect Radiator For Leaks and Holes

If your coolant is running low, it could be possible that your radiator might have a leak or hole. If this problem is not corrected, you could lose most the coolant in your system and overheat the motor. If you notice drips under your vehicle or your radiator has coolant on it, it is probably time to replace the radiator.

Always use the Manufacturer’s Recommended Coolant and Quantity

Not all coolant is the same. When most people look at coolant, they will see that there is a significant difference between the types available. All vehicles are not the same. Always use what the manufacturer recommends and only filled with the quantity that is specified. Antifreeze is available in a 50/50 blend that is pre-diluted, and a regular that you will need to dilute yourself. Whichever you decide make sure that if you get the brand that needs to be diluted that you follow the directions. A 50/50 blend is the easier option because it is a simple fill with the amount you need with no need for additional mixing.

Never Mix Coolants

It is imperative never to mix coolants. If your system is running the orange Dexcool, don’t mix in the Green generic anti-freeze. They have a very different makeup. If you mix them, you could potentially cause the fluid in your cooling system to become almost gelatin like and junk up in the system. If you are unsure about what coolant you need, ask before filling it. The easiest way to avoid problems is not to mix colors.