Well, your vehicle has made it through the harsh cold days of winter. That means your radiator has been on the job! As we head into spring, take time to schedule a radiator service to make sure you don’t find yourself stranded on the side of the road experiencing what happens when your radiator goes bad. If you have not already scheduled radiator service, don’t delay any longer to ensure your vehicle remains reliable transportation.
So what happens when your radiator goes bad? Take a minute to consider the three most common issues below:
- Overheating – If the coolant/antifreeze cannot flow through the engine freely, it will likely become overheated. Make sure the hoses are clear and that the level of antifreeze/coolant is just right. If you should see a warning light illuminate or the temperature gauge rising to the hot zone, get your car off the road instantly to prevent damage to your engine and call a tow truck.
- Leaking – Radiator hoses and clamps should be checked frequently as they become brittle and crack over time. If you see a puddle on the garage floor or notice the smell of antifreeze, a hose may want to be replaced or the radiator may be corroded with rust.
- 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.
Tip to Remember: 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 topped off.
Do you have more questions about what happens when your radiator goes bad? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about radiator service and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
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