Radiators are simply your car and truck engines’ heat exchangers. Your vehicle’s engine is cooled when a pump circulates liquid coolant through it to absorb the heat that is generated when the engine is in operation. The heated liquid continues through the radiator where a fan helps cool it back down for its return trip. Naturally, you want to adhere to regularly scheduled radiator service to keep this important system functioning well. Otherwise, you may find yourself without a working engine!
According to professional mechanics, such as the trained and experienced staff here at Xpress Lube in Kernersville, here are the most frequent cooling system repairs:
Failed thermostat. Actually, if your car or truck overheats, more often than not the thermostat is the reason why. While it technically isn’t part of the radiator itself, it does control how much coolant can get in and out of it, keeping the engine at operating temperature and running well. If the thermostat breaks down, your vehicle’s engine will overheat almost immediately.
Leaky hoses. If we spot a leak coming from the cooling system, it’s probably going to turn out to be from the hoses. Since these hoses are where the coolant flows to and from the engine, they can wear out from use and should be replaced during regular service appointments as part of your car’s continued maintenance before they get too old.
Air in the system. If air gets into the cooling system, it can block the flow of coolant. If your car is running hot, bring it in to the professionals at Xpress Lube and we will advise you about whether you need us to bleed the system for you.
Radiator leaks. These are more difficult to locate and repair than hoses. To locate them, we look for steam or bubbles coming directly from the radiator, but patches are often complicated and not always dependable.
Failed water pump. It’s just common sense that if the pump stops working then the coolant won’t circulate and the engine temperature won’t be controlled. This definitely will result in an overheated engine and will require immediate maintenance.
Blockage in the system. Things can happen that cause the flow of coolant through tubes and hoses or the flow of air through the radiator to get blocked. These can range from scales and particles of debris to dents and accident damage. Either way, we can fix them for you.
Broken fan. An electrically-powered fan sucks outside air through the radiator to keep it cool, especially when your car is stopped or going slowly. So, if your vehicle’s temperature is fine while you’re cruising along but overheats in traffic, it’s probably the fan. A quick service at Xpress Lube is all you need.
So, whether it’s radiator service that you need or any of the other things we can do for you at Xpress Lube, just call us for an appointment, or stop in to see us at 725 Highway 66 South in Kernersville to talk about what’s going on with your vehicle.
