Symptoms of A Bad Or Clogged Radiator

 

Signs That A Radiator Is In Bad Condition

Conroe, United States - November 14, 2022 /Milstead Service Center/

A car engine gets hot when it runs. Overheating can be dangerous. Temperature regulation is essential to prevent any damage due to overheating. The water pump, hoses, thermostat, and radiator are all parts of a cooling system in cars that regulates temperature. The radiator keeps a vehicle cool by heat exchange. When the thermostat detects excess heat from the engine, the radiator releases coolant and water to run through and absorb the heat from the engine. The heat transfers to the liquid and is sent back to the radiator. The radiator then blows air across the liquid and exchanges the heat with air outside the vehicle. A fan that blows air across the radiator and thin metal fins allow heat to escape to the air on the exterior. 

A radiator plays a vital role in the safe functioning of a car. So, when a radiator is not functioning correctly, it must be looked into and may need auto repair. In this article, Milstead Service Center, Conroe, TX, lists the signs that indicate that a radiator is in bad condition. Milstead Service Center is an auto repair shop with expert ASE-certified mechanics with expertise in automotive technology, diagnostics, and repairs. For auto repair in Conroe, TX,  by an experienced, affordable, and dependable expert, Milstead Service Center is the apt choice. 

Signs of a bad radiator

1. Overheating

Overheating a vehicle engine under normal conditions signifies a failing radiator. Though the radiator cools the engine, overheating can also be due to other problems, like a faulty thermostat. 

2. Leaking coolant

A pool of yellow, green, or red liquid under a parked vehicle is due to a coolant leak. A coolant leak can be due to a problem with the radiator, hose, or engine block. A mechanic like Milstead Service Center can locate the source of the leak and provide radiator repair in Conroe, TX. 

3. Sludge in the radiator

The coolant usually flows from the radiator to the coolant passages in the car engine. A bad radiator can lead to debris and sludge accumulation, contaminating the coolant. When the coolant in the radiator appears rusty in color, instead of the usual bright green, yellow, or red, it may indicate contaminant buildup in the radiator. Contaminants affect the performance of the radiator negatively. A mechanic can check the radiator to find out what is causing the discoloration of the coolant. 

4. Damaged, misshapen radiator fins

The fins of the radiator get damaged easily. A few damaged fins may not lead to significant engine overheating. But, when more fins are damaged, less coolant flows in the radiator, leading to overheating. The chances of a leak are higher if the radiator has smashed fins.

5. Difficulty shifting gear

In cars with an integrated transmission cooler, a faulty radiator can cause issues in shifting gears which occurs when the fluid is contaminated by the coolant due to cracks or other problems in the system.

Ignoring the symptoms of a bad radiator can lead to more time and money being wasted later. If these symptoms are not noticed, the problems with the radiator can lead to engine damage or breakdown. It is better to check the radiator when such signs occur and get service from an auto repair shop. Car repair in Conroe, TX, can be done at Milstead Service Center. The dedicated and experienced team at Milstead Service Center works on most vehicles, including RVs, trucks, SUVs, vans, and cars. This expert mechanic is committed to delivering quality and value, and they work to earn the trust and satisfaction of customers. Car owners in need of car repair in Conroe, TX, can contact Milstead Service Center by calling the phone number(936) 441-3500.