Got A Clogged Radiator? – Common Signs You Must Know

Most car owners know bare car maintenance essentials: changing the oil, checking the tires, and getting the occasional tune-up. But what about those less frequent issues that can still cause significant problems down the road if you ignore them? One of those is a clogged radiator.

If your radiator starts backing up with sediment and dirt, it can lead to overheating, engine failure, and even a complete breakdown on the side of the road. So, if you’re unsure what to look for when diagnosing a clogged radiator, don’t worry – we’re here to help.

1. Leaking Coolant –

When coolant cannot circulate inside the radiator, it leaks to the other side of the vehicle. When you notice coolant drops on the garage floor or the driveway, pop up the hood to see if the radiator is not leaking anywhere in the assembly.

2. Damaged Water Pump –

The coolant inside a clogged radiator stops flowing to the water pump. Without any water to lubricate the moving parts, the metals eventually grind to suffer significant damage.

3. Discolored and Thicker Coolant –

A visible change in the coolant’s viscosity or color signifies that it’s time to take the car to the mechanic. When rust, sludge, and debris mix inside a coolant, it turns into a dirty brown color and feels thicker than usual.

4. Damaged or Blocked Radiator Fins –

The radiator fins absorb heat from the engine and cool down the water passing through them. When these get damaged, they cause the engine to overheat.

5. High Gauge Temperature Readings –

Your gauge temperature readings are the perfect way to gauge engine health. If the needle starts moving into the red, your engine is overheating, and you should take the car to a nearby service station.

What to Do with a Clogged Radiator? –

If you think your radiator is clogged, the best thing to do is take it to a nearby car service center and have it checked by a professional.

Professional auto technicians will inspect the engine failure and diagnose the problem. The experts then recommend the best course of action. In most cases, the radiator must be flushed and refilled with fresh coolant.

However, in case of excessive damage, you may need to replace the radiator entirely. Either way, it’s best to let a professional handle it so you can avoid any further engine damage.

Other Common Radiator Issues –

A few other issues can cause your engine to overheat. These include:

• A coolant leak
• A faulty thermostat
• A water pump that’s not working properly
• Blocked airflow

If you notice such issues, it’s best to take your car to a professional as soon as possible. Engine damage from overheating can be expensive to repair; take immediate action if you want to avoid costly repairs.

Suppose you’re experiencing common symptoms of a clogged radiator or car radiator issues. In that case, scheduling a repair session with Team One Hyundai of Gadsen, serving Piedmont, AL, is time.

We can help you get your car back on the road in no time!