How Can I Tell If My Radiator Is Damaged?
If you suspect a problem in your car and think it might be a long-due radiator repair, don’t worry. Spotting radiator damage is not as tricky as it might sound.
Arlington Toyota Jacksonville brings you these signs that you should check for radiator damage.
Under the Hood:
Leaking Coolant
You will spot small green, orange, or pink puddles of coolant below your car. Check the radiator overflow tank to ensure it’s not empty. If it is, that means your car is leaking radiator fluid.
Coolant Levels
If you don’t see any leaking coolant, open the radiator cap and check the coolant level. If it’s low, your car excessively uses the coolant, or there’s some other intrinsic issue requiring radiator repairs.
Rusty Radiator
The physical condition of your radiator also determines whether it needs to be repaired or replaced. A minor radiator repair may be all that’s required if there’s only a tiny amount of rust. However, excessive rusting means it’s time for a car radiator replacement.
Cracks in The Radiator
If there are cracks in the radiator, it will need to be replaced. These breaks can happen for several reasons, but the most common is hitting a curb or other object. These cracks may be difficult to see, so it’s always best to take your car to a mechanic for an inspection if you suspect there may be an issue with the radiator.
Blocked Fins
The fins on a car’s radiator can become blocked with leaves, dirt, or other debris. When this happens, it doesn’t allow the heat to dissipate correctly and will cause the engine to overheat. You can clean the radiator fins yourself with a brush. Still, it’s best to let a professional mechanic handle it to avoid damage.
Other Signs:
Overheating Engine
One of the most telltale signs of radiator replacement is if the engine overheats frequently. If the car’s coolant isn’t flowing correctly, it can cause the engine to overheat. This usually happens when there’s a leak in the radiator.
Temperature Warning Light
Most cars have a temperature warning light when the engine starts to overheat. If this light is frequently coming on, it’s a sign of an issue with the car’s cooling system.
Cabin Heater Not Working
If the car’s cabin heater isn’t blowing hot air, it’s a sign that the radiator isn’t working correctly. The cabin heater relies on the car’s engine coolant to function. If the coolant is low, it can cause the heater to stop working.
Conclusion:
Catching these problems early can save you from costly damages and radiator replacement. Sometimes a repair is all that’s needed.
You can resolve any radiator issues and other problems by relying on a trusted dealership for radiator replacement in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.
Arlington Toyota Jacksonville, serving Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, is your go-to option for Toyota service. Our experts have decades of experience and are always ready to serve you. With our top-notch Toyota service, we promise you will never stop coming back.
Schedule your service with us now!
