Jul 26, 2022

Faulty Radiator Symptoms - Radiator Leaking Coolant and More!

A car’s radiator is a vital part of the engine cooling system. If your radiator starts to have problems, it can affect the performance and lifespan of your vehicle. Learning the signs of a bad radiator can help you troubleshoot and fix the problem before it becomes too serious. 

In this blog post, Acura of Tempe will discuss some common bad radiator symptoms, including leakage, overheating, and reduced engine power. We will also feed y’all tips on how to address these issues. Keep reading to learn more!

  1. Coolant Leakage:

One of the most well-known signs of a bad radiator is leakage. If you notice coolant pooled under your car or on the ground where you parked, there is likely a leak in your radiator. In some cases, the leak may be smallish and not cause any major problems. However, if the leak is unchecked, it can eventually lead to engine overheating and damage.

  1. Overheating Engine: 

Another symptom of a bad radiator is an overheating engine. Suppose your engine temperature gauge starts to climb into the red zone. In that case, it indicates your cooling system is not working properly. Several things can provoke this, including a coolant leak, faulty thermostat, or clogged radiator.

  1. Steam Coming from Under the Hood: 

If you see steam billowing out from under your car’s hood, it’s a sure sign that something is wrong with your radiator. In most cases, this steam is caused by overheated coolant boiling into the engine compartment.

  1. Radiator Slow to Fill: 

Another symptom of a bad radiator is a slow fill rate. This means that when you add coolant to your radiator, it takes a long time for the reservoir to fill up. A leak in the radiator usually causes this.

  1. Radiator Fan Not Working: 

The radiator fan is responsible for cooling the coolant in your radiator. If the fan is not working, That will not properly cool the coolant, and your engine could overheat.

How to Address These Issues?

If you think you have a leaking radiator, the best action is to take your ride to a certified mechanic and have them take a look. If you’re losing coolant quickly, it’s best to add more coolant and keep an eye on the level. If your radiator fan isn’t working, you’ll need to replace it. 

Taking care of your radiator is important for the longevity of your car. By being on the lookout for these bad radiator symptoms, you can catch problems early and prevent them from becoming extensive, more expensive issues.

Here’s How Acura of Tempe Can Help!

Acura of Tempe, serving Tempe, AZ, has a top-notch service department that can help you with all your radiator needs. Our highly oriented and experienced technicians can take care of any problem, big or small. 

We’ll get you back on the road in no time. So, don’t go for the DIY route – come see us at Acura of Tempe and let us take care of your car radiator issues!

Schedule a service appointment today!