The radiator of your car is tasked with cooling the engine by radiating away excess heat, limiting engine wear and extending the life of the vehicle. Since it’s a crucial component, you should be able to identify when it’s starting to fail. Here are a few red flags that indicate you need immediate radiator repair.

How to Determine If Your Car Needs Radiator Repair

1. Frequent Overheating

Overheating occurs when the radiator can’t fully control the temperature of the engine. It’s characterized by clouds of steam billowing out from under the hood of your car. If this happens, pull to the side of the road and shut off the engine. To avoid being burned by the steam, wait until it stops flowing before you raise the hood. Check the radiator hose for cracks or disconnections. Wait 15 minutes for the engine to cool before removing the radiator cap, then check its fluid levels and add coolant if necessary. If this frequently happens, schedule radiator repair with a reputable service shop.

2. Thermostat Readings

If the engine temperature gauge on your car’s instrument panel continually points to a hot temperature, it could be the result of several problems, including a low coolant level. Additionally, this could indicate that the thermostat isn’t working properly or the radiator isn’t functioning as it should. Don’t postpone a service appointment as driving while your engine is too hot can shorten the life span of your vehicle or necessitate critical repairs.

3. Leaking Coolant

Your car uses coolant to transfer heat from the engine block to the radiator’s cooling fans at the front of the vehicle. If the coolant is leaking, it cannot cool the engine properly. If you spot puddles of bright green, pink, or yellow fluid beneath your vehicle, take the car in for repairs. A serious leak can result in a total loss of fluid, which can cause a complete engine failure.

For affordable, reliable, no-hassle radiator repair, contact the team at Priam's Automotive Service & Repair in Honolulu, HI. These professionals provide Oahu drivers with a variety of vehicle repairs, including AC systems, exhaust pipes, and timing belts. Dedicated to customer service, they’ll obtain your authorization before moving forward with work and will notify you of any complications that arise during the repair. View their services online, or call (808) 537-1919 to request a free estimate.