Summer May Be Over But Your Car Can Still Overheat: How To Tell When Your Radiator Is About To Fail You
Summer may be long gone, but that doesn't mean you can stop worrying about your radiator. Even with the warm temperatures out of the way, your car can still overheat. Unfortunately, overheating can wreak havoc on your engine. In fact, overheating can lead to the total destruction of your engine, especially if you don't get the problem resolved quickly. However, it's not always easy to know when your engine needs help. Take a look at the list below. If you're experiencing any of the problems described, it's time to have your radiator inspected.
Your Radiator Light Keeps Coming On
When it comes to radiator problems, it's a good idea to pay attention to the dashboard warning lights. The illuminated radiator light is often the first sign that there's something wrong with your cooling system. If your radiator light comes on and then goes right back off, there's probably nothing to worry about. However, if the light comes on and stays on, or flashes on and off while you're driving, you need to visit the repair shop.
You Have to Stop to Cool Down
When your radiator is about to fail, you may notice that the temperature gauge goes into the red while you're driving. Once you see the temperature going up, it's crucial that you pull over to the side of the road and give your car time to cool down before driving again. If you find yourself parking on the side of the road more often, your cooling system is trying to tell you something. Stop driving your car and get it to the repair shop as soon as possible.
You've Got a Puddle Under Your Car
Your cooling system is involves more than just your radiator. It also includes the coolant reservoir and all the hoses that connect to the radiator and reservoir. If there's a problem with one element of the cooling system, there's a problem with the entire system. One way to tell if you've got a problem is to watch under your car. Puddles of coolant are a sure sign that your cooling system is in need of help. As soon as you begin to notice puddles of coolant under your car, schedule a radiator inspection.
Your Coolant Isn't Clear Anymore
If you've every taken a close look at your coolant before, you know that it's clear. It may be different colors, including pink, green and yellow, but it's always clear. If the coolant in your reservoir turns milky, or you notice a layer of sludge at the bottom of the reservoir, get your car to the repair shop immediately. Your cooling system is in dire need of attention at that point.
Contact a service, like Engel's Auto Service & Towing, for more help.