Radiator Repair: Time to Replace the Radiator?
An automobile engine gives off a lot of energy in the form of heat. The coolant system, which circulates coolant through the engine, absorbs the heat. Once the coolant becomes heated it is circulated back to the radiator, where the heat is transferred and radiated into the air. This cools the water and antifreeze mixture, which then repeats this process. Without a radiator to remove the heat from the coolant, your vehicle would quickly overheat, the engine would eventually be inoperable, and a costly radiator repair would be necessary. Or worse, it could be necessary to replace the radiator!
Life expectancy:
A properly maintained radiator can be expected to last for at least eight to 10 years. Older metal units, when well maintained, can last for the life of the car. Units in today's new vehicles are mostly made from plastic which expands and contracts as it heats and cools. Over time, it will eventually crack, requiring a radiator replacement.
To achieve the maximum lifetime performance of your radiator, follow these guidelines:
- Flush – flush the coolant system at regular intervals. This ensures the proper flow of water and antifreeze mixture.
- Maintain a proper level of coolant - Coolant escapes and evaporates regularly, especially when the engine runs hot. If the level of coolant is too consistently low, it may indicate a leak. Has the cooling system checked to determine if a radiator repair is required?
- Other potential problems - rusty hose clamps, corrosion to the aluminum core, and problems with the thermostat that regulates coolant flow. A faulty thermostat will cause frequent overheating, resulting in damage to the engine.
Proper maintenance will prevent you from having to replace your radiator. It should last quite a long time--maybe even the entire life of your vehicle.
Need quality radiator repair? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Care Auto by calling 507-625-8005, or go on-line at www.expresscareautomn.com for more information about radiator service. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
An automobile engine gives off a lot of energy in the form of heat. The coolant system, which circulates coolant through the engine, absorbs the heat. Once the coolant becomes heated it is circulated back to the radiator, where the heat is transferred and radiated into the air. This cools the water and antifreeze mixture, which then repeats this process. Without a radiator to remove the heat from the coolant, your vehicle would quickly overheat, the engine would eventually be inoperable, and a costly radiator repair would be necessary. Or worse, it could be necessary to replace the radiator!
Life expectancy:
A properly maintained radiator can be expected to last for at least eight to 10 years. Older metal units, when well maintained, can last for the life of the car. Units in today's new vehicles are mostly made from plastic which expands and contracts as it heats and cools. Over time, it will eventually crack, requiring a radiator replacement.
To achieve the maximum lifetime performance of your radiator, follow these guidelines:
- Flush – flush the coolant system at regular intervals. This ensures the proper flow of water and antifreeze mixture.
- Maintain a proper level of coolant - Coolant escapes and evaporates regularly, especially when the engine runs hot. If the level of coolant is too consistently low, it may indicate a leak. Has the cooling system checked to determine if a radiator repair is required?
- Other potential problems - rusty hose clamps, corrosion to the aluminum core, and problems with the thermostat that regulates coolant flow. A faulty thermostat will cause frequent overheating, resulting in damage to the engine.
Proper maintenance will prevent you from having to replace your radiator. It should last quite a long time--maybe even the entire life of your vehicle.
Need quality radiator repair? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Care Auto by calling 507-625-8005, or go on-line at www.expresscareautomn.com for more information about radiator service. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
