7 Signs Your Car’s Radiator is in a Bad Shape
Have you ever wondered what your car radiator is feeling? According to Sun Toyota, if your car's radiator is acting up, it could lead to costly problems down the road. Like humans, cars need regular check-ups and tune-ups to stay healthy and avoid expensive repairs.
Your car's radiator is the key to its smooth functioning. If you notice any warning signs, bring the vehicle in for service as soon as possible or risk having an engine blown!
Your car's engine is overheating:
It is the most obvious sign that something is wrong with your radiator. If you see the temperature gauge rising in red, pull over and turn off the engine immediately. Let the engine cool before checking the fluid level of the radiator.
Your car is leaking coolant:
If you see a pool of greenish-yellow liquid under your parked car, it's coolant. Check the hoses and clamps to see if they're loose or damaged. If they look okay, then the radiator itself is probably leaking. That is a serious problem that needs to be fixed ASAP.
Your car's engine is running hot:
Notice that your car's engine seems to be running hotter than usual. It could signify that the radiator isn't working correctly. Check the coolant level and make sure there's enough in there. If not, top it off and see if that helps. If the problem persists, you may need to take your car to a mechanic for further diagnosis.
Discolored coolant:
If you notice the coolant turning orange or brown, it's a sign of contamination. That can happen if the radiator leaks or something is wrong with the cooling system. You'll need to flush the system and replace the coolant.
A sweet smell is coming from the car:
If you notice a sweet smell coming from your car, it could be an indication that there's a coolant leak. You'll need to take your car to a mechanic so they can fix the leak and replenish the coolant levels.
Your heater is not working:
When you notice your heater isn't working, check the coolant level and make sure it's not low. There's a chance that an issue with the radiator may be causing your car to overheat. They contain water and other vital fluids like oil or gas if you're without engines (like electric vehicles). Make sure to keep these topped up at all times!
A strange noise is coming from the engine:
If you detect an unusual noise from your car's engine, it could indicate that the radiator is starting to fail. You'll need to take your vehicle to a mechanic so they can diagnose and fix the problem.
If you see any signs of a troubled car radiator mentioned in this article, get your car checked out by a professional as soon as possible. Not only will you prevent costly repairs in the future, but you may also save your engine from overheating.
Keep an eye on your car radiator. If it looks like it might be having a bad day, call us at Sun Toyota serving Dunedin, FL, to schedule a service appointment. We can also help you find the perfect used car to fit your needs and budget.
