A radiator is a critical component of your car’s heating and cooling system. When it begins to malfunction, you may experience several problems with your vehicle. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the signs and symptoms of a bad radiator and the expected lifetime of the car part. Keep reading to learn more!
What Are the Functions of a Car Radiator? –
Your car’s radiator has two main functions: to keep the engine cool and to help regulate the temperature of the car’s cabin. The radiator is made up of a series of metal fins that are connected to a series of tubes. These tubes contain coolant, which circulates through the engine to absorb heat. The coolant then moves through the radiator, cooled by the air passing through the fins.
The Symptoms of a Bad Radiator? –
Several signs may indicate your car’s radiator is not functioning properly. If you notice such issues, you must take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible for diagnosis and repair.
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Overheating Car Engine –
Insufficient cooling causes increased friction in the engine, which in turn causes the engine to overheat. Suppose your car’s engine is running hotter than usual. In that case, it may indicate that the radiator is not adequately cooling the coolant.
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Coolant Leaks –
Another sign of a problem with your car’s radiator is coolant leaks. It is likely coolant if you notice any green or orange fluid leaking from your car. Coolant leaks are usually the result of a leak in the radiator or a system clog preventing the coolant from flowing properly.
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Clogged or Damaged Radiator Fins –
The radiator fins are the metal vanes that surround the radiator core. These fins help to dissipate heat and protect the radiator from damage. If the fins are damaged or clogged, it can prevent proper cooling.
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Transmission Issues –
If your vehicle’s transmission cooler is linked to its central cooling system, it can face transmission problems during a leak. The leak in the cooling system causes a mixture of incompatible fluids, ultimately resulting in a transmission failure.
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Check Engine Light is On –
Very few radiators or car damage signs will be complete without the mention of a check engine light. The check engine light is a tell-tale sign of something wrong with your car. If the radiator leaks, it can set off the check engine light.
What is a Radiator’s Expected Average Lifespan? –
The average lifespan of a car radiator is between 60,000 and 80,000 miles, while many can function even beyond 100,000 miles. However, this number will change based on how well you care for your car and its radiator. You can extend the lifespan of your car’s radiator by properly maintaining it.
You may be experiencing some car radiator issues and not even know it. The signs of a lousy radiator are easy to spot if you know what to look for. If you’re experiencing any car radiator issues we’ve listed, don’t wait- bring your car in for a replacement radiator as soon as possible.
Please schedule an appointment with Lake Elsinore Honda, serving Riverside, CA, today and let our team take care of everything for you!
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