The Car Geek: How to Detect a Problem in your Radiator

The Car Geek

Tuesday, October 11, 2005

How to Detect a Problem in your Radiator

The radiator is an important part of the engine system that is designed to dissipate the heat which the coolant has absorbed from the engine. If you take a trip down into the bowels of a vehicle's radiator system, you'll see that it is composed of tubes and passages which hold a large amount of water in contact with the atmosphere. In operation, water is pumped from the engine to the receiving tank. There it spreads over the tops of the tubes. The water acts as a coolant preventing the engine from overheating.
Overheating is a common problem in ay vehicle. Here are a few simple steps you can do to determine a problem in your radiator and find a solution:
  • Inspect the radiator overflow when the radiator is cold. Open the radiator cap and check inside the radiator.

  • If the radiator is empty, fill with water or antifreeze and close. Low coolant level is the main cause of overheating.

  • If the water is rusty, flush it our and replace. If this does not solve the problem, you may have to replace your radiator.

  • If the radiator is leaking, empty it and fix up with a commercial radiator sealant. If the leak is severe, you may have to replace your radiator.

  • Inspect the both lower and radiator hoses and make sure they are securely clamped to the radiator and show no signs of leaks.

  • Have your car checked by a professional auto mechanic.
If the radiator is defective and damaged beyond repair, replacement is the only option so that the performance of the engine is not endangered. High quality replacement radiators can be purchased from Auto Parts Inner, the leading source of auto information and top quality auto parts. They have a huge array of auto parts that are guaranteed to serve your needs reliably. Auto Parts Inner is the first choice for radiators, A/C condensers, fuel tanks and other important auto parts.