Is Your Car Radiator Failing? How to Find Out

The radiator is a crucial part of your vehicle's cooling system. Your engine produces heat when running and it's the radiator's job to ensure it doesn't overheat. The coolant will absorb the heat produced by the engine and flow through the radiator where the cooling occurs. This critical role of your car's radiator means that it's imperative for it to be in a good working condition all the time.

However, like any other vehicle component, your radiator may pick up a problem or two down the line. It's important to be able to notice when this happens so that the necessary repairs can be done. Fortunately, your car will always tell you when there's a problem with the radiator and here are the signs to watch out for.

Overheating

An engine that is constantly overheating is one of the obvious signs that your radiator is going bad. Overheating is a problem you may have even when driving at slow or moderate speeds. A rising temperature gauge will show you that your engine is overheating. However, in extreme cases, an overheated engine will result in steam or smoke coming out from under your bonnet.

It's important that you contact a mechanic as soon as you notice signs of overheating. Ignoring the problem is an invitation to dealing with more severe and extensive engine problems such as cracked engine blocks or blown head gaskets, which will be quite expensive to repair.

Coolant Leaks

A leaking coolant can also be a result of a problematic radiator. That's simply because the coolant flows through your vehicle's radiator. Therefore, if there is a physical damage to the radiator such as a crack, the coolant will leak. Pay attention to any fluid leaks underneath your car especially after it has been parked for a while. However, remember that fluid leaks under your car may be an indicator of other problems. The colour, as well as the texture of the fluid, will tell you the exact fluid that is leaking. Generally, coolant fluids come in a range of colours including bright yellow, green, orange, red, or pink and have a slimy texture. A sweet smell is sometimes also common with coolants so keep that in mind.

Sludge Build-up in the Radiator

Visual inspection of your vehicle components can also help you detect faulty issues. Sludge build-up in your car radiator is a definite sign of a problem somewhere. Sludge is usually caused by contamination, which is a result of the coolant staying in the radiator instead of cycling back to the engine. Have a car radiator repair person inspect the radiator as soon as possible.