So that you know what happens when the radiator goes bad, you should understand what is the purpose of the radiator. Simply stated, the radiator’s job is to keep the engine from overheating. You may wonder how does it do this? As you know, the engine produces heat while it is running. The coolant circulating through the engine absorbs this heat, then passes it through the radiator where it is cooled off. The coolant is then circulated back to the engine where the cycle starts again. Because the radiator is the major component of the cooling system, it is important that you keep up with regular radiator service so that it remains in good working condition.
So what happens when the radiator goes bad? Here are some signs to look for:
- Leaking coolant under the car. If there is a leak in the radiator, you will notice coolant puddling underneath your vehicle. Ask your mechanic to perform a pressure test (the radiator is pressurized and colored dye is added to the coolant) to verify if the radiator is the cause. If there is a leak, the radiator unit may need to be replaced.
- Overheating engine. If your engine is constantly overheating, the radiator may be going bad and cannot cool the engine. As soon as you notice an overheating problem, take care of it as soon as possible to prevent ruining your engine.
- Sludge in the radiator. Typically, the coolant should be yellow or green or red. As the radiator goes bad, it will turn a rusty or oil color from contaminants. If not flushed periodically, this dirty coolant turns into sludge. By the time it turns to sludge, it will not flow properly to cool the engine efficiently and you may end up with extensive damage to the engine and transmission.
- Low coolant. If your low coolant light comes on or you are constantly refilling your coolant tank, there may be a leak in the radiator or connecting hoses.
As soon as you notice any of the signs above, schedule a radiator service so that you aren’t left stranded on the side of the road with a broken-down car.
Wondering what happens when the radiator goes bad? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about radiator service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
So that you know what happens when the radiator goes bad, you should understand what is the purpose of the radiator. Simply stated, the radiator’s job is to keep the engine from overheating. You may wonder how does it do this? As you know, the engine produces heat while it is running. The coolant circulating through the engine absorbs this heat, then passes it through the radiator where it is cooled off. The coolant is then circulated back to the engine where the cycle starts again. Because the radiator is the major component of the cooling system, it is important that you keep up with regular radiator service so that it remains in good working condition.
So what happens when the radiator goes bad? Here are some signs to look for:
- Leaking coolant under the car. If there is a leak in the radiator, you will notice coolant puddling underneath your vehicle. Ask your mechanic to perform a pressure test (the radiator is pressurized and colored dye is added to the coolant) to verify if the radiator is the cause. If there is a leak, the radiator unit may need to be replaced.
- Overheating engine. If your engine is constantly overheating, the radiator may be going bad and cannot cool the engine. As soon as you notice an overheating problem, take care of it as soon as possible to prevent ruining your engine.
- Sludge in the radiator. Typically, the coolant should be yellow or green or red. As the radiator goes bad, it will turn a rusty or oil color from contaminants. If not flushed periodically, this dirty coolant turns into sludge. By the time it turns to sludge, it will not flow properly to cool the engine efficiently and you may end up with extensive damage to the engine and transmission.
- Low coolant. If your low coolant light comes on or you are constantly refilling your coolant tank, there may be a leak in the radiator or connecting hoses.
As soon as you notice any of the signs above, schedule a radiator service so that you aren’t left stranded on the side of the road with a broken-down car.
Wondering what happens when the radiator goes bad? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about radiator service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
