6 Things That Can Go Wrong With Your Vehicle's Radiator

12 January 2016
 Categories: , Articles


If you're like most consumers, you probably automatically assume that your vehicle is experiencing engine or transmission trouble when your car overheats or otherwise shows signs of malfunctioning. However, the culprit could very well be your radiator. Following are six things that can go wrong with your vehicle's radiator and what you can do about them.

Water Pump Malfunctions

Even if you take perfect care of your vehicle, the time will come when the radiator water pump will need to be replaced. This part of your vehicle's system works very hard, and normal wear and tear will eventually take a toll. Indications that it's time for a new water pump include grinding sounds that increase as the vehicle gains speed, coolant leaks, and unusual fluctuations of your vehicle's temperature gauge.

Thermostat Failures

Your vehicle's thermostat controls a valve that regulates the amount of coolant that flows in and out of the radiator, and its failure can result in your vehicle rapidly overheating. You can test the functionality of your thermostat by checking the temperature gauge on your dashboard. If it rises to an extreme level within 15 minutes after you turn on the ignition, a faulty thermostat may be the culprit. A hood that is hot to the touch is another indication that the thermostat may be malfunctioning. The thermostat valve may be simply stuck in the closed position if one of the radiator hoses is hot to the touch and the other is cool.

Failed Radiator Fan Belts

A screeching or squealing sound coming from under your hood is a possible indication that your radiator fan belt is not working properly. Radiator fan belts are more likely to wear out on vehicles that are more than eight years old, and they may need replacing every 40,000 or 50,000 miles. Radiator fan belts on newer vehicles last for about 150,000 miles under normal driving conditions. Besides a high pitched screeching sound while the vehicle is in motion, you can detect a faulty fan belt through a visual inspection. Mechanics often recommend that a radiator fan belt be replaced if there are two or more cracks per inch.

Leaky Radiator Hoses

A radiator hose failure is another potential cause of an overheated engine. Faulty hoses can also result in malfunctions of the vehicle's electrical charging system and loss of power steering. A radiator hose in good condition will feel pliant to the touch yet not have overly soft or mushy spots. Fraying, cracks, nicks, and bulges in the hoses are other signs that hoses may need to be replaced.

Leaks in the Body of the Radiator

A leaking radiator is a fairly common problem that can leave you stranded by the side of the road if you fail to detect the issue in time. Signs of a leaking radiator include telltale puddles of fluid under the engine in areas where the vehicle has been parked, significant drops in coolant level over relatively short periods of time, worn radiator hoses, noticeable corrosion, and engine overheating. Radiator fluid is bright green in color with a slimy texture. Because it is toxic, you should clean the area immediately and either have the leak fixed or have the radiator replaced as soon as possible.

Trapped Air in the Cooling System

Air bubbles in the cooling system can cause your vehicle to run hot. While this problem is not nearly as potentially serious as the ones listed above, air bubbles can nonetheless interfere with the performance of your vehicle. Air bubbles are more likely to be an issue if parts have been replaced in your vehicle's cooling system. Your local mechanic can quickly and easily flush the cooling system out to remove trapped air, and you can also do this yourself if you've got some mechanical expertise.

For more information and assistance, visit your local auto repair shop, such as Jensen Tire & Auto.


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