This is lots of winters yet to come. Don’t find yourself stranded on the side of the road wondering about what are the symptoms of a bad radiator. You also need to make sure you have the right antifreeze/water mixture to keep your engine from freezing. If you have not already scheduled radiator service, don’t delay any longer.
What are the symptoms of a bad radiator? Take a look at the 3 issues below:
- Overheating – If the coolant cannot get to where it wants to go, your engine could overheat, even in freezing temperatures. Make sure the hoses aren’t clogged or that the level of antifreeze/coolant isn’t too low. If you see a warning light on the dash or the temperature gauge rising to the hot zone, get your car off the road instantly to prevent damage to your engine.
- Leaking – If you see a puddle on the garage floor or warning the smell of antifreeze, there may be a cracked hose or the radiator is corroded with rust. Radiator hoses and clamps should be checked frequently.
- Smoking – If there is smoke coming from under the hood, it may simply be that coolant has leaked onto the motor and is being burnt off. Though, smoke coming from the muffler could mean that the head gasket has been damaged from the engine overheating.
Regular radiator service is vital to inspect the hoses and radiator unit for leaking and to make sure the antifreeze/water mixture is still effective. A flush of the cooling system may be suggested, or simply want to be topped off.
Wondering what are the symptoms of a bad radiator? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about radiator service and to schedule an appointment. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served car owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.
