Radiator Repair: Radiator Service Check List
Spring is just around the corner and you may be starting to plan your spring and summer road trips. This is a good time to consider a radiator service. Before you head down the road, to be on the safe side, consider the following issues. If any of them seem familiar, schedule a radiator repair with a trusted mechanic.
Before starting your vehicle:
- Write down a few notes it your engine is overheating. Pay attention to “when” it occurs, especially if there is no visible leak and the fluid level is correct. This will help your mechanic determine the possible cause.
- Don’t forget to check the coolant/antifreeze level in the radiator. Remove the radiator cap (when the engine is cold) and look inside. If the fluid is at the proper level, you should be able to actually see it. If you have to add more than a pint or if you see any obvious loss on the ground or in the engine compartment, have the cooling system pressure tested for a leak as part of a radiator service.
When the engine is idling
- Check to determine if the cooling fan for the radiator is working properly. Most cars have an electric motorized fan that cools the engine, especially when the vehicle is stopped or at lower speeds.
- Check to see if your car has an air conditioner condenser fan. The air conditioning compressor will require the cooling fan to operate as long as the compressor is on, again especially at idle or low speeds.
While the engine is running at driving speed:
- Check to see if there is enough coolant/anti-freeze circulating. Airflow and coolant circulation is crucial at 55 MPH. The water pump should be pumping a large amount of coolant/antifreeze throughout the cooling system.
- Check to determine if overheating is occurring at normal driving speeds, caused by a restriction in the system such as a kinked radiator hose, a restricted radiator, or a stuck thermostat.
Major engine damage from overheating can be avoided if you have the problem diagnosed and the appropriate radiator repair taken care of as soon as possible.
Need quality radiator service? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Cannon Auto Repair today by calling 507-263-2120 or go on-line at https://www.cannonautorepair.com for more information. Our auto repair shop serves vehicle owners in Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.
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Spring is just around the corner and you may be starting to plan your spring and summer road trips. This is a good time to consider a radiator service. Before you head down the road, to be on the safe side, consider the following issues. If any of them seem familiar, schedule a radiator repair with a trusted mechanic.
Before starting your vehicle:
- Write down a few notes it your engine is overheating. Pay attention to “when” it occurs, especially if there is no visible leak and the fluid level is correct. This will help your mechanic determine the possible cause.
- Don’t forget to check the coolant/antifreeze level in the radiator. Remove the radiator cap (when the engine is cold) and look inside. If the fluid is at the proper level, you should be able to actually see it. If you have to add more than a pint or if you see any obvious loss on the ground or in the engine compartment, have the cooling system pressure tested for a leak as part of a radiator service.
When the engine is idling
- Check to determine if the cooling fan for the radiator is working properly. Most cars have an electric motorized fan that cools the engine, especially when the vehicle is stopped or at lower speeds.
- Check to see if your car has an air conditioner condenser fan. The air conditioning compressor will require the cooling fan to operate as long as the compressor is on, again especially at idle or low speeds.
While the engine is running at driving speed:
- Check to see if there is enough coolant/anti-freeze circulating. Airflow and coolant circulation is crucial at 55 MPH. The water pump should be pumping a large amount of coolant/antifreeze throughout the cooling system.
- Check to determine if overheating is occurring at normal driving speeds, caused by a restriction in the system such as a kinked radiator hose, a restricted radiator, or a stuck thermostat.
Major engine damage from overheating can be avoided if you have the problem diagnosed and the appropriate radiator repair taken care of as soon as possible.
Need quality radiator service? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Cannon Auto Repair today by calling 507-263-2120 or go on-line at https://www.cannonautorepair.com for more information. Our auto repair shop serves vehicle owners in Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.
About the Author
