Bad Radiator Symptoms
This article answers questions on bad radiator symptoms, what a radiator does, what happens when my car overheats, and what you should do.
What are bad radiator symptoms?
- Coolant leaks
- Low coolant levels
- Low Coolant Light
- Thick Sludge Like Coolant
- Steam from under the hood
- High-temperature gauge
- Rusty Coolant
- Hot Radiator Hose
- Check engine light is on
What does a car radiator do?
The radiator keeps the engine cool by circulating coolant throughout the engine. Coolant prevents the engine from overheating and lubricates the engine components. Coolant circulates throughout the engine absorbing heat and returning it to the radiator to be cooled.
Can a bad radiator cause a car to overheat?
Yes. When a radiator or radiator components start to go bad it impacts the vehicle’s ability to regulate engine temperatures, causing it to overheat.
There are other reasons your car could be overheating. Ask your auto repair shop.
Can I drive if my car is overheating?
No! Danger. If your car is overheating DON’T continue to drive. Heat is dangerous. It can cause a fire or major damage to your engine.
What do I do if my car is overheating?
- Turn your car off.
- Check your coolant levels.
- Add Coolant if low
- Tow it to Truman’s or a trusted auto repair shop near you.
Bad Radiator Symptoms Include a Coolant Leak
What does a coolant leak under my car look like?
Coolant is usually a bright green or orange color. If you notice a colorful liquid on the ground it’s probably your coolant.
What does a coolant leak under my car mean?
If you see a coolant leak, low coolant levels, or your car is overheating this could be a cracked radiator. Refill your coolant and get your car in that day to avoid any more damage. If you’re noticing a coolant leak under your car, take it to Truman’s Automotive & ADAS Calibrations to have one of our mechanics perform a pressure test on the radiator. A pressure test will verify the cause. If your radiator is cracked or broken it will most likely need to be replaced.
Schedule a pressure test for your radiator+
What causes a cracked radiator?
- Rapid Temperature Changes from Hot to Cold
- If your car is overheating DO NOT put cold water on the engine. A radiator can crack from hot and cold temperatures rapidly changing. The rapid change in temperature could crack your radiator or other hot metal components.
- Weather
- Extreme cold weather can freeze your coolant and crack your radiator.
- Wear and Tear
- The life of a radiator is about 10-20 years. Some vehicles need to be replaced in as little as 5 years while others can last 20. It depends on the wear and tear of the vehicle, and how often you maintenance the vehicle.
Bad Radiator Symptoms Include Changes to the Coolant
Why does my coolant look like mud?
If your coolant looks like mud or is no longer a bright color it has contaminants. A bad radiator can cause changes in your coolant’s colors.
Other issues with your coolant might include:
-
Rust Colored Coolant
-
Thick Sludge-Like Coolant
-
Low Coolant
A broken radiator can turn coolant a rust color and thicken the consistency from contaminants. If your coolant is thick it will not flow properly to cool the engine. This will cause your vehicle to overheat and could break other components.
Schedule a Free Auto Repair Quote
If you’re worried about your car’s radiator or if your vehicle is overheating, come by Truman’s. We’re located in Altoona not far from Adventureland. Schedule an appointment with Truman’s.