A radiator cools down the engine and prevents overheating. The coolant absorbs the heat from the engine; the radiator then cools it down and sends it back to the engine. A malfunctioning radiator will cause overheating and severe damage to your engine if not repaired fast. Luckily, there are ways to tell when your car needs repair from the qualified and experienced technicians at your Ford dealer here in Larned, KS.
The Temperature Gauge Reading Is High
Your radiator prevents the engine from overheating, and when you notice a high temperature gauge reading, something is wrong with your radiator. In the summer, when it's hot outside and your air conditioner is running, and the temperature reading is a little higher, it's no reason for concern. If the gauge consistently gives a high temperature reading, it's best to ask your Ford technician to determine what is causing the issue.
The Coolant Is Discolored and Syrupy
Coolant is a bright green, yellow, pink, or orange color. Some coolants are red or blue and have a consistency to flow freely through the cooling system. Over time coolant becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, the color changes to brown, and the thickness of the fluid becomes syrupy. The dirty, thicker coolant has lost its protective qualities, doesn't flow easily through the cooling system, and clogs the radiator. If you don't get the coolant replaced at the recommended intervals, the thick, contaminated liquid will cause your car to overheat.
Your Car Is Leaking Coolant
If you look under your car and see drops of bright yellow, green, orange, or pink liquid, coolant is leaking out. This means your car might overheat. If you spot even the tiniest drop of coolant on the ground where your car was parked, check the coolant level, top it off, and get the leak fixed by a qualified Ford technician as fast as possible to avoid extensive damage.
Your Radiator Is Rusty
Rust is a huge problem that needs sorting out quickly. Rust will cause holes that will result in leaks. If the coolant is brown, it could indicate rust contaminating the coolant. Contaminated coolant will lose the ability to cool down the engine and cause overheating. Dirty coolant could also cause damage to your radiator.
The Radiator Fins Are Clogged or Damaged
The delicate thin fin tubes that run across the radiator carry hot coolant. Air that blows onto the fin tubes cools the coolant before it flows back to the engine. When the fins become clogged with leaves, bugs, and road dirt, or damaged and bent by gravel or a stream of water from a pressure washer, it blocks the airflow to cool down the coolant, and the engine will overheat.
There Is Smoke From Under the Hood or Exhaust Pipe
When your engine gets too hot, the radiator might be the culprit. If you see smoke billowing out from under the hood, pull over immediately and wait for your car to cool down. Phone your dealership and ask for assistance. You don't want to drive your vehicle to avoid severe engine damage. Another symptom of a coolant leak is when you see white smoke pouring out of your exhaust pipe. Check the coolant, and if the level is low, there might be a coolant leak. If you spot any of these radiator issues, don't delay. It's best to act fast to avoid expensive repairs and replacements. Contact Morris Smith Ford of Larned today. Our team of expert technicians will assist you with all your vehicle requirements.
