5 Signs You Need to Repair Your Radiator

The radiator is the main component that cools and regulates an engine's temperature. The radiator also serves as a container for the cooling liquids of the engine, coolant, and water.

Without a properly functioning radiator, you run the risk of engine damage from overheating. Learning to identify the signs of a problem with your radiator will help prevent stressful situations down the road. Read on to discover a few common signs you need to consider radiator repair.

1. Rising Temperature Gauge

A rising temperature gauge is one of the first signs a radiator needs some professional attention. A car's temperature gauge displays two things: the current temperature of the engine and whether that temperature is within the normal range.

When your car is on, the temperature gauge should be close to the middle of the dial. The gauge should always read somewhere between 195 and 220 degrees. If the temperature gauge reads above 240 degrees, pull over and shut off your engine. If the temperature keeps climbing and you keep driving, you risk blowing out your engine.

2. Low Coolant Levels

The coolant surrounds the engine, absorbs heat, and then dissipates it through the radiator. Low coolant levels can lead to overheating, resulting in significant engine damage.

You should check your coolant levels regularly to ensure they don't fall too low. Checking your coolant level is a simple task that can save you a lot of money in repairs.

After cooling down the engine, pull off your radiator cap to check the coolant level. The coolant level should be between the minimum and maximum lines on the side of the radiator tank.

3. White Smoke

When talking about a car, smoke is never a good thing. One of the most common signs of a broken radiator is white smoke coming from under the hood or the tailpipe.

The smoke from under the hood occurs when the coolant leaks into your engine and mixes with the oil. As the coolant heats up, it creates steam that comes out as white smoke.

Excessive white smoke from your car's tailpipe is a sign the coolant has gotten into the combustion chamber and is burning along with the fuel.

4. Visible Coolant Leak

The first sign of radiator trouble is usually a puddle of coolant underneath your car. Coolant leaks are easy to spot, as coolant is bright green or orange in color and has a sweet smell when leaking. The liquid usually concentrates around the front end of your car.

Leaking coolant is dangerous because it accelerates the corrosion of metal parts under the hood. Leaking coolant could be a sign of a clogged or corroded radiator. Radiator clog is a result of contaminated coolant by rust and debris.

5. Radiator Discoloration

If you find discoloration on your car's radiator, you need to take a closer look. Radiator discoloration could be a sign of a small leak or crack in your radiator. When the fluid from a leak or crack splashes onto the radiator, the heat will boil it away. Once the liquid boils off, it leaves behind a burnt spot that quickly rusts.

A car with a broken radiator is going to break down and possibly cause even further damage to your car's engine. Unfortunately, radiator repair is something you're likely to have to deal with as a vehicle owner. Even the act of driving can lead to radiator issues. Therefore, watch for early signs of damage to prevent significant damage. Always take the time to inspect and maintain your car so you can catch any issues before they grow into expensive repairs.

Consult with a trusted mechanic if you suspect any damage to your vehicle. Call us at Kell Radiator Service today if you have questions about radiator repair.