This article is dedicated to mentioning the most common symptoms of a bad radiator.
The radiator has the crucial function of regulating the coolant temperature by cooling it down when it passes through it.
So, radiator problems can consequently produce, if neglected, engine damage.
Having this in mind, knowing these symptoms of a bad radiator will certainly come in handy.
If you have the time, watch our videos about car repairs and driving tips on our YouTube channel.
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SYMPTOMS OF A BAD RADIATOR
1. ENGINE OVERHEATING
The first and most obvious symptom of a bad radiator is engine overheating.
How bad the overheating is depends on how clogged the radiator is.
If it’s partially clogged, the temperature gauge will show values a bit above normal while if it’s seriously clogged, the engine may overheat in a matter of minutes.
2. NO COOLANT FLOW
You can see the next telltale symptoms of a bad radiator if you look inside the coolant bottle.
Make sure to do this check when the engine is running and when the engine has reached working temperature. Be careful when doing this since the coolant is hot.
Once you’ve opened the coolant bottle, take a look at the coolant flow from the return hose.
If there is no coolant coming from it, you may have a bad radiator problem (probably a clog in this case).
3. UNEVEN TEMPERATURE OF THE COOLANT HOSES
One more check you can do is to check the temperatures of the coolant hoses.
Once more be careful and do this only if you have safe access to both hoses on the radiator.
If the radiator is bad or clogged, one hose will be warm or hot while the other will be cold.
This is due to a lack of coolant circulation due to the bad radiator.
4. COLOR OF COOLANT
While you’re checking the coolant, check the color of it also.
The coolant should be clear and without any debris in it. If you notice any kind of particles like rust, tiny pieces of scrap, or filth inside, then this might be caused by a clogged or damaged radiator.
5. RADIATOR LEAKS
One more of the very common symptoms of a bad radiator is the appearance of leaks.
This happens mostly due to material fatigue or maybe due to some sort of physical damage.
You’ll easily notice this by the frequent loss of coolant and in worst cases, puddles under the car or on the protective plastic undercover.
CONCLUSION
In most cases, the first signs of trouble regarding a bad radiator are overheating and the appearance of leaks.
The most common cause of these problems is material fatigue of the radiator but also poor maintenance.
Whatever of these symptoms you notice, react immediately otherwise there may be serious engine damage.
Usually, there is enough time to notice and react to symptoms of a bad radiator if you pay some attention.
Written by: Sibin Spasojevic
Former car technician, life-long car and DIY enthusiast, author for Despairrepair.com
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