5 Radiator Repair Tips for a Smooth Ride
Car radiator repairs are not as simple as they used to be. In order for your car and its engine to run safely, it relies on the condition of your car’s radiator. The radiator keeps your car engine working at the proper temperature. You may have questions about how to know when it’s your car’s radiator that’s acting up and when to get your radiator repaired or completely replaced. Here are five common radiator questions and answers from our professional team of mechanics at Harris Automotive:
1. How do I know it’s my car’s radiator that’s not working?
Some common signs of radiators not working properly are usually noticed right away. A sign that your radiator is failing is when your car starts to overheat. Keeping your engine at the perfect temperature is your radiator’s number one job, so overheating is a sure sign that it’s a radiator problem. Other signs could be coolant leaks, sludge buildup behind your radiator, and you experience low coolant levels. If you still have problems knowing exactly what is going on, take your vehicle into a professional car repair shop to get the best diagnosis.
2. When does my radiator’s fluid need to be flushed?
A radiator flush is normally recommended about every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Every car is completely different from the timing of a flush. While less frequently changed than your regular oil change, you should put a radiator flush on your car maintenance list for every couple of years. Check your car’s owner’s manual to see what the preferred time is to change it unless problems arise sooner.
3. What are the most common radiator problems?
The reason your car’s radiator is not working well could be due to multiple problems. First things first: you could have a bad temperature gauge, which will need to be replaced right away! Or your radiator could have a bad fan that’s in need of repair or replacement. In extreme cases, your radiator’s body could be cracked, which will need to be replaced urgently. A cracked radiator causes overheating and fluid leaks that can cause more damage to your engine.
4. How do you fix a radiator leak?
If your car’s radiator is leaking, you will want to get the professionals to check it out right away. They will be able to pressurize the cooling system to check for where the leak is and also check the entire radiator for other issues. Radiator leaks can be due to the cap not being placed on correctly or an engine block. Or your water pump or radiator hose could be worn out.
5. How much does a radiator repair or replacement cost?
Now, this is the big question: How much does it really cost to get a radiator issue repair or replacement? If you need a full replacement, the cost can get pretty pricey for a new radiator. For better estimates of your radiator’s repair or replacement, visit your local automotive repair shop.
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