5 Warning Signs That Your Used Car’s Radiator Needs Attention

Your car’s radiator is an essential component that helps keep your engine running cool. It’s not always easy to tell when your car’s radiator needs attention. Often, minor car radiator problems will develop into bigger ones before you even realize there’s a problem. If it shows signs of distress, it’s necessary to take action. 

Eastern Shore Luxury Cars will discuss five warning signs that your used car’s radiator needs attention. By checking on these signs, you can prevent your car from overheating and causing severe damage to the engine.

1. Temperature Gauge Creeping into Red Zone

Pull over and turn off the power immediately if the temperature gauge on your dashboard is creeping into the red zone. Wait some time to let the car cool down before opening the hood to check the radiator fluid level. If it’s low, add more fluid and continue to monitor the situation closely. If the problem persists, take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible.

2. Thermostat Malfunction

Another reason could be that the thermostat is stuck in a closed position, which prevents coolant from flowing through the engine. It can also cause overheating.

3. Leak in the Radiator Hose

A third possibility is a leak in the radiator hose. It is a reasonably easy problem to spot, as you’ll likely see coolant leaking from the hose onto the ground. A cracked or frayed radiator hose is a severe issue. Not only does it decrease the efficiency of the cooling system, but it can also lead to a complete breakdown.

4. The Engine Is Making Unusual Noises

If your engine makes more noise than expected, it could indicate that the radiator is not circulating coolant properly. A telltale sign that your car’s radiator needs attention is when you hear a hissing sound from under the hood. A leak in the cooling system usually causes this. 

Another noise to listen out for is gurgling. It can indicate that there are air pockets in the cooling system, which prevents proper circulation. If your car overheats, don’t ignore it. These problems can severely damage your engine if left unchecked. Be sure to immediately take your vehicle to a mechanic if you suspect any of these issues.

5. The Radiator Fan Isn’t Working Properly

If the radiator fan isn’t working correctly, it won’t be able to cool the engine effectively. It can cause the car to overheat, even if there aren’t any other issues with the cooling system.

Ending Note

Even if your car is running fine, keeping a close eye on the radiator is essential. The last thing you would want is a minor problem to turn into a bigger one before you realize there’s an issue. If it shows signs of distress, it’s necessary to take action. 

At Eastern Shore Luxury Cars, serving Loxley, AL, we want our customers to have reliable transportation for years to come. That’s why we offer certified pre-owned cars with a lifetime warranty. 

Stay ahead of any potential radiator issues by watching these five warning signs, and contact us today for more information or assistance!