Advice From Your Ford Dealership: How to Tell If Your Ford Needs a Radiator Repair

Your vehicle’s cooling system relies on the radiator to cool down the hot coolant by passing it through narrow tubes. If your radiator is not working correctly, your car may overheat, which can cause permanent engine damage. Below, your Ford dealership helps you identify when your vehicle requires a radiator repair to avoid further damage.

The Fins Are Clogged

The proper cooling of radiators largely depends on maximum airflow. The thin tubes resembling fins in the front of your vehicle carry the hot coolant away from the engine. When you’re driving, air flows over these tubes, which helps to cool the temperature of the coolant. When dirt, leaves, or bugs block the fins, it reduces the airflow. 

Your Car Is Overheating

A faulty radiator can cause your vehicle to overheat while idling or driving. A broken thermostat or too little coolant can cause your Ford to get too hot under the hood while you drive. A failing radiator fan could cause overheating while your car is idling. If your car overheats, you should pull over immediately when it’s safe and call us for assistance while you wait for the engine to cool down.

The Coolant Is Low or Leaking 

Keeping the coolant at the proper level ensures your engine runs at the ideal temperature. If your car requires frequent coolant refills or if you notice brightly colored orange, green, or yellow puddles forming on the ground under your vehicle, your car is likely leaking coolant. 

The Coolant Is Discolored and Contaminated

Coolant circulates freely between the radiator and the coolant passages. A faulty radiator can cause a sludge buildup that can contaminate the coolant. When the coolant is dirty, it becomes thick and takes on a rusty color. Thick coolant cannot flow freely through the system and may cause the radiator to clog.

You Notice Corrosion

Generally, coolant does not cause corrosion or eat away at metal components in a vehicle’s coolant system. Coolant contains inhibitors to prevent corrosion. If you fail to flush your car’s coolant system for extended periods, the inhibitors may break down and cause the formation of sludge or corrosion that could result in cracks or leaks in your coolant system.

Your Car’s Heater Is Malfunctioning 

Your radiator can impact the functionality of your vehicle’s heater, especially on the passenger side. The cabin heater operates by circling coolant through the heater core system, which causes warm air to flow through the vents. There won’t be enough coolant to generate warmer air if there are clogs or leaks.

If you experience radiator trouble, you must quickly get it repaired. Call Geweke Ford now for an appointment, and the certified Ford technicians will perform expert repairs.

Tags: Cooling System Maintenance, Engine Care, Ford Radiator Issues, Ford Service Advice, Overheating Solutions, Repair Signs, Vehicle Health
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