Common Radiator Problems and How to Spot Them Early
A vehicle’s radiator from a car radiator manufacturer plays a crucial role in keeping the engine cool and running smoothly. However, even minor issues with the radiator can quickly lead to overheating, reduced performance, or costly repairs if not addressed in time. Understanding the most common radiator problems and recognising their early warning signs can save you from unexpected breakdowns and expensive fixes.
In this blog, we’ll explore the typical radiator issues vehicle owners face, and how to spot them before they turn into major headaches.
Let’s get started.
Radiator Leaks
One of the typical radiator issues is radiator leaks. Leaking radiators can lead to a variety of engine issues, including overheating and depositing coolant on the road, which is bad for your engine as well as the environment.
Radiator leaks are generally caused by corrosion of the radiator’s metal components or damage to plastic parts from a collision or wear and tear.
Signs of Radiator Leaks
- Patches of green, yellow, or pink fluid on the ground under your car
- A smell coming from the engine bay
- Engine temperature rising above the normal range
Rust and Corrosion
Another common issue is rust and corrosion. As the vehicle gets older, rust and corrosion are often found in the radiator. A dirty coolant fluid, contaminated water in the radiator, and neglecting to replace the coolant for a very long time can all accelerate the rusting process.
Signs of Rust and Corrosion
- Reduced or inefficient heater performance
- Noticeable rust formation on the radiator or within the coolant reservoir
- Coolant loses colour
Cooling System Blockages
Blockages may result from mineral deposits in the cooling system, a faulty thermostat, or a defective radiator cap. When coolant circulation is impaired, it can cause engine overheating and potential damage.
Signs of Cooling System Blockages
- The heater fails to produce hot air
- Visible sludge or debris in coolant
- Sudden or erratic spikes in engine temperature
Radiator Fan Malfunction
The radiator fan plays a vital role in keeping the engine at its optimal operating temperature. A malfunctioning fan can cause the engine to overheat, resulting in reduced performance and possible engine damage.
Signs of Malfunctioning Radiator Fan
- The fan fails to start when the engine becomes hot
- The engine tends to overheat in slow-moving traffic or when stationary
- Unusual sounds, like whirring or grinding, are coming from the fan area
Pressure Cap Issues
As the name suggests, a pressure cap is used to maintain system pressure so the coolant can operate at higher temperatures without boiling. A fault in the pressure cap can lead to overheating by losing pressure in the system.
Signs of Pressure Cap Problem
- Coolant overflows or boils from the reservoir or radiator
- The level of coolant in the reservoir doesn’t match the system’s performance.
- Visible deterioration or damage to the cap’s rubber gasket
Final Thoughts
So, these are some of the common problems that can occur with your radiator. If you encounter any of these issues, it is best to see a mechanic right away.
