6 Signs That Indicate You Have a Clogged Car Radiator

Your car radiator’s core function is to keep your car engine cool and operating at a peak temperature, ensuring it doesn’t overheat even on hot days. 

A car radiator is an important element of your car’s cooling system. Its primary function is to distribute a blend of antifreeze and water across its fins, a process that helps dissipate the engine’s heat while drawing in cool air. 

Often, when your car radiator is clogged or worn out, it can lead to issues such as engine overheating or, in more severe cases, an engine blowout. You are likely to observe strange noises coming from the radiator or notice a decrease in performance. 

If you notice any of these issues, the radiator replacement services at In Town Automotive will help get your radiator back to its optimal state and bring back that powerful performance you once enjoyed.  

However, how do you know if your radiator is having trouble? To help you out we have made a list of 6 telltale signs that indicate your radiator is clogged, reducing the efficiency of your engine. 

Let’s check them out!

1. Overheated Engine

One of the most obvious signs that indicate a clogged radiator is an overheated engine. The engine typically operates at approximately 90 degrees Celsius. If you notice your thermometer light is lit up on your dashboard, this may mean the coolant is not cooling the engine properly, potentially resulting in an overheated engine. This happens when the coolant isn’t efficiently circulated through the cooling system or if there’s a blockage in the radiator that blocks proper airflow. 

2. Leaking Coolant

Leaking coolant is another common sign that points towards a clogged radiator. Blockages in the radiator disrupt the normal flow of coolant, causing it to move in unintended directions, which ultimately leads to leaks. Inspect the radiator hoses for any signs of cracks or leaks and also examine the radiator cap to ensure it hasn’t been lost or damaged. 

In the event of a coolant leak from the radiator, it’s crucial to have it addressed promptly by a certified and skilled technician. If you’re based in Northampton, In Town Automotive should be your first visit. Insufficient coolant levels in the radiator can result in engine overheating, potentially causing significant damage to the engine.

3. Low Coolant Level

If you find yourself refilling your car’s coolant levels repeatedly within a short period, it would be wise to examine your radiator for leaks. A clogged radiator struggles to efficiently circulate the coolant, causing the coolant to escape within the engine compartments. 

These leaks, albeit small individually, can collectively result in a noticeable drop in the coolant level over time. Ignoring this issue for a long time can have serious consequences, as a low coolant level can trigger engine overheating, potentially causing severe damage and costly repairs. Be sure to keep a watchon the coolant level and top it up as recommended. 

4. Changed Coolant

Coolant is typically either bright green or orange. However, with time it becomes thicker and its colour changes into a deep or rustic brown colour, which usually happens due to the accumulation of dirt and other impurities in the radiator. If you notice discolouration or a change in its thickness, it might also mean that your radiator is rusting on the inside and contaminating the coolant. Thick and degraded coolant will not be able to absorb heat efficiently, causing the engine to overheat and eventually blow out. 

5. Damaged Water Pump

The water pump is like your engine’s heart, constantly pumping water to keep it cool. The gaskets and seals inside the water pump keep the coolant in place and are responsible for its appropriate circulation. However, if you have a clogged radiator, the coolant will not flow properly as it normally should, which can cause the water pump to overheat and eventually fail. When this happens you might hear squealing or grinding noises coming from the engine. Additionally, you may also notice puddles of coolant forming underneath your car due to a coolant leak. 

6. Damaged Radiator Fins

Radiator fins are thin metal pieces you see on the sides of your car’s radiator. They might not seem like a big deal, but they play an important role in keeping your engine cool. Their job is to help the radiator dissipate heat, keeping the coolant’s temperature in check. 

However, when the fins are bent or broken, they can disrupt airflow over the radiator, which is needed to cool down the hot coolant inside it. Additionally, damaged fins can lead to the leakage of coolant and other radiator fluids. If you notice bent or broken fins, it’s time to address the issue and take your car to a reliable garage like In Town Automotive. 

Contact In Town Automotive for Dealing Effectively with Radiator Problems and More!

A radiator replacement for your car can be a costly repair, but with proper maintenance, you can prevent this expense. However, if you notice any of the signs mentioned above, In Town Automotive can help. Our skilled technicians will be happy to help you replace or repair your car radiator and get it up and running smoothly. 

Our award-winning garage is one of the leading names in Northampton and our experienced technicians have the skills and experience to conduct thorough checks and repairs to your vehicle. We make sure that when you’re on the road, there’s nothing that stops you!

We also offer a variety of car servicing and repairs for your air-con, brakes, cambelts, and more. Additionally, if you’re due for an MOT test, we’ve got you covered! No matter what you need, you’ll find it all right here!To learn more about us, check out our services or contact us to book an appointment today!