If you notice any signs indicating a problem with your radiator, don’t wait to visit your mechanic. Delaying may increase damage and even make your car inoperable. When searching for radiator repair near me, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.

5 Signs You Need A New Car Radiator

Like most car components, you’ll notice signs that you should have a mechanic take a look at your radiator. Below are the most common indications you may need a radiator repair:

1. Your Car’s Temperature Gauge Reads Hot

Located on your dashboard, the temperature gauge measures your coolant’s heat. If the needle starts to inch towards high, your car is beginning to overheat.

2. Leaking Or Low Coolant

Many automakers use metal radiators. Over time, rust may develop. Then, it’s just a matter of time before a leak develops.

Usually, you’ll see a puddle of coolant underneath your car when your radiator leaks. As coolant levels decrease, your engine will run hotter and may even overheat.

3. Coolant Discoloration

Depending on the manufacturer’s formula, the coolant may be blue, green, violet, yellow, or orange. As the coolant circulates through the engine it picks up sediment and rust giving it a muddy, brown color.

Typically, dirty coolant is thicker and won’t flow as easily through your system as fresh coolant. It can even clog up your car radiator.

4. Car Heating Issues

Generally, automakers design your engine so that coolant picks up heat from the combustion process. This hot coolant passes through the heater core, a mini radiator-like structure. As the blower motor moves air past the heater core, the air picks up the heat warming your cabin.

Often, a radiator problem may also cause cold air to blow from your vents on a wintery day. Whether you have a leak or contaminated coolant, a malfunctioning system can’t keep your cabin toasty.

5. Overheating

An overheating engine will surpass the safe operating temperature of your engine. A warning light on your dashboard may illuminate. You may see a cloud of steam coming from under your car’s hood.

If you think your engine is overheating, pull over safely as soon as possible. Driving with an overheating engine is dangerous and can result in serious damage.

Car Radiator Maintenance

Typically, radiators last a long time, possibly the life of your vehicle. However, you must remember to follow the recommended maintenance:

• Maintain the proper level of fluid
• Check hoses and connections
• Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines for coolant flushing
• Always use the anti-freeze recommended by your automaker

Generally, it’s easy to check your coolant level and condition. Manufacturers equip modern cars with a coolant reservoir. The reservoir will have a line showing the maximum fill line. Moreover, when the engine is cool, you can remove the cap and check the color of your coolant.

Structurally, radiator hoses transport coolant throughout the engine. The constant change in coolant temperature can cause deterioration. Thus, you should check your hoses every 3,000 miles. When the engine is cold, squeeze your hoses. If they’re not firm and rigid, consider replacing them soon.

As you’re checking your hoses, also inspect the clamps holding the hoses in place. Sometimes, clamps can loosen or become corroded allowing coolant to escape.

Moreover, you should perform coolant flushing routinely. How often depends upon your automobile manufacturer’s recommendation as outlined in your owner’s manual. In addition, always use the anti-freeze defined by your automaker.

Radiator Repair Near Me – FAQs

Finding a radiator repair near me doesn’t have to be a frustrating experience. To help you make an informed decision about your car, we’ve answered a few commonly asked questions.

Can A Mechanic Fix Rather Than Replace A Damaged Radiator?

Usually, It depends on the severity of the damage. Often, an auto mechanic can fix a small leak. However, if your radiator has a lot of rust, you’ll need to replace it.

Occasionally, consumers will use a “stop leak” product thinking they’ve solved the problem. However, these types of products are temporary. If you use one of these products, bring your car to your mechanic as soon as possible for an evaluation.

How Much Should I Pay To Replace A Car Radiator?

Before you replace your radiator, have a qualified technician examine your cooling system. Several other components may be causing your engine to overheat. A bad thermostat, failing water pump, or low oil can all cause overheating.

If an auto mechanic determines it’s time to replace your radiator, the cost can vary greatly depending on your car. First, your automaker’s engine configuration can make accessibility difficult driving up labor costs.

Additionally, you’ll find several different types of products. Manufacturers make cross-flow, downflow, single, double, and triple pass radiators.

Furthermore, material costs will help determine the price. While older cars had radiators of brass and copper, most modern automakers use aluminum for radiators. Some may even use plastic.

Bring your vehicle to us and we’ll take a look at your radiator. We’ll give you a competitive estimate of the cost before we begin any work.

How Can I Avoid Problems With My Radiator?

By paying attention to your car’s servicing schedule, your engine will run optimally. Usually, a poorly maintained vehicle will consume more fuel, as much as 40%.

Certainly, you should follow your owner’s manual for specific instructions on radiator maintenance. However, other types of servicing are just as important for avoiding costly repairs and breakdowns. For example, when we perform an oil change, we also do a courtesy check on the following components:

• Engine air filter
• Brake fluid
• Power steering fluid
• Automatic transmission fluid
• Coolant/antifreeze

Moreover, we’ll be happy to answer any questions about your fuel system, tires, or any other problems you’re experiencing. Plus, we offer great tips on maintaining your vehicle on our Facebook and Instagram accounts.

For all your car needs including radiator repair near me, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.