Wondering what are the Symptoms of a Bad Radiator?

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.

Sliding Down the Road? You May Need New Tires!

There are several reasons to check your tires before winter arrives in full force. You may need new tires for the harsher winter conditions. There are advantages and disadvantages of snow tires, especially because of the extra traction they provide. These tires are different from all-season wheels, composed of a high-quality rubber compound with studs for greater grip on the pavement.

If you are looking for Tires Princeton MN than find our dedicated Vehicle Maintenance Princeton MN shop. Meet our expert Wheel Alignment Princeton MN for engine rebuilds service. 

Snow tires have...

Better Grip

When roads are covered in snow or ice, snow treads are indisputably superior. They are specifically built for maximum grip. Deeper treads and hard studs combine to provide better traction. If you drive in harsh winter weather, snow treads are essential.

Superior Braking

When conditions are poor, braking is compromised by thin threads, and versatile all-season models can lock up and skid. New tires with winter treads dig into snow and ice to break quickly and safely.

Protect yourself and your family. Check air pressure often and if you need to get new tires do not put it off, especially in the winter months. Because air expands when heated and contracts when cooled, it is critical to check the air pressure in the fall and early winter months. As the temperatures drop, the pressure will also go down.

The rule of thumb for temperature change is that for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit, tire pressure changes by 2 percent. Inflation goes up with hotter temperatures and down with colder temperatures. In most of the U.S., the summer and winter temperatures vary by 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This results in a drop of 5 psi (pounds per square inch) in the dead of winter. This is enough to compromise the handling, traction and longevity of your tires. Check your pressure in the morning for most accurate readings.

Need a set of high-quality winter tires? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about the kind of new tires needed for your vehicle. Rum River also offers quality auto repair and auto detailing services. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.