How To Tell If Your Radiator Is Damaged: Common Signs

Your car’s radiator helps keep the engine cool; the engine may overheat if the radiator becomes damaged or clogged, necessitating costly repairs. In this blog post, Cutter Mazda Honolulu will discuss some common symptoms of a damaged radiator.

Symptom 01: High-Temperature Gauge Readings

When the readings on your temperature gauge start to rise, you’ll know something is wrong with your radiator. Modern vehicles alert you when engine temperatures get too high and display a digital temperature gauge. Most automobiles typically operate in a temperature range of 195 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit. Occasionally a slight increase is expected during the sweltering summer, but if you consistently obtain excessive readings, your radiator may be clogged or damaged.

Symptom 02: Coolant Leaks

It is probably the coolant if you notice a green, yellow, or pink liquid seeping from your car. Although this may seem like an obvious red flag for radiator damage, many of us overlook tiny leaks.

If coolant leaks, a low coolant alert will appear on your dashboard to inform you that there is insufficient coolant in the engine. Even the most minor crack can cause your engine to overheat if left unchecked.

Symptom 03: Coolant Discoloration

Depending on the brand, engine coolant is typically a vibrant green, yellow, red, or pink color. It should easily flow throughout the radiator and coolant channel for efficient cooling. Internal deposits may contaminate the coolant forming sludge over time. This may give it a dark, reddish hue.

A radiator clog might develop due to the thick nature and difficult flow of contaminated coolant. This significantly lowers the radiator’s efficiency.

Symptom 04: Cabin Heater Not Working

If your cabin heater isn’t blowing hot air, it could signify a damaged radiator. The radiator’s coolant helps heat the air that blows through the vents.

There may not be enough coolant in the radiator if there is a leak, making the air improperly heated. This might be a significant issue, particularly during the winter.

Symptom 05: Blocked Radiator Fins

Radiator fins are thin metal plates that help to dissipate heat. If they become bent or blocked, it can prevent proper airflow and cause the radiator to overheat.

You may be able to see bent or damaged fins if you look at the radiator from the front. If they are significantly bent, it can cause problems with the radiator’s ability to dissipate heat.

Final Thought:

Take your car to a professional to get the radiator checked out if you experience any of these radiator damage symptoms. Regarding engine damage, it’s always better to be cautious than sorry!

If you own a Mazda, you want professional mechanics working on it. Visit Cutter Mazda Honolulu, serving Honolulu, Hawaii. We not only employ some of the finest in the business, but we also have a cutting-edge facility that can handle various tasks.

Schedule your service today!

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