Summer is fast approaching and no one wants to get stranded on the side of the road on a hot summer day! Now is a good time of year to get a radiator service before those hot months are here. To determine if your vehicle is overheating or is prone to, and to help prevent an unexpected radiator repair down the road, ask your auto mechanic to check the following items:
- Fluid levels – Is there enough coolant/antifreeze? Don't just look inside the plastic overflow bottle, but remove the cap (when the engine is cold) and look inside the radiator. If the fluid is at the proper level, you should be able to physically see it. If you have to add more than a pint or if you see any obvious loss on the ground or in the engine compartment, schedule a radiator service to have the cooling system pressure tested for a leak.
- Be observant – If your engine is overheating, be alert to determine “when” it actually occurs, especially if there is no leak and the level of fluid is correct. Knowing the possible cause will help your mechanic determine the correct type of radiator repair needed, saving you time and money.
While the Engine is idling or at Low Speeds:
- Radiator Fan – Is the cooling fan working properly, cooling the engine?
- Air Conditioner Condenser Fan – The compressor will require the cooling fan to operate at idle as long as the compressor is on.
While the Engine is Operating at Driving Speed:
- Fluid circulation – Is there enough hot anti-freeze circulating? Airflow and coolant circulation is crucial at 55 MPH. The water pump should be pumping a large amount of hot antifreeze throughout the cooling system.
- Component malfunction – if overheating is occurring at normal driving speeds, there may be a restriction in the system like a kinked hose, or a stuck thermostat.
The radiator is the primary engine cooling component, and airflow is crucial. Insufficient airflow will cause your car to overheat. If this happens, take your car to your local auto service center for a radiator repair as soon as possible.
Need quality radiator service? Call our radiator repair specialists at Elk River Tire & Auto Service. They will be happy to help you with all your car problems. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians today by calling (763) 441-2889 for more information. Our auto repair shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
Summer is fast approaching and no one wants to get stranded on the side of the road on a hot summer day! Now is a good time of year to get a radiator service before those hot months are here. To determine if your vehicle is overheating or is prone to, and to help prevent an unexpected radiator repair down the road, ask your auto mechanic to check the following items:
- Fluid levels – Is there enough coolant/antifreeze? Don't just look inside the plastic overflow bottle, but remove the cap (when the engine is cold) and look inside the radiator. If the fluid is at the proper level, you should be able to physically see it. If you have to add more than a pint or if you see any obvious loss on the ground or in the engine compartment, schedule a radiator service to have the cooling system pressure tested for a leak.
- Be observant – If your engine is overheating, be alert to determine “when” it actually occurs, especially if there is no leak and the level of fluid is correct. Knowing the possible cause will help your mechanic determine the correct type of radiator repair needed, saving you time and money.
While the Engine is idling or at Low Speeds:
- Radiator Fan – Is the cooling fan working properly, cooling the engine?
- Air Conditioner Condenser Fan – The compressor will require the cooling fan to operate at idle as long as the compressor is on.
While the Engine is Operating at Driving Speed:
- Fluid circulation – Is there enough hot anti-freeze circulating? Airflow and coolant circulation is crucial at 55 MPH. The water pump should be pumping a large amount of hot antifreeze throughout the cooling system.
- Component malfunction – if overheating is occurring at normal driving speeds, there may be a restriction in the system like a kinked hose, or a stuck thermostat.
The radiator is the primary engine cooling component, and airflow is crucial. Insufficient airflow will cause your car to overheat. If this happens, take your car to your local auto service center for a radiator repair as soon as possible.
Need quality radiator service? Call our radiator repair specialists at Elk River Tire & Auto Service. They will be happy to help you with all your car problems. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians today by calling (763) 441-2889 for more information. Our auto repair shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
