Vehicle Radiator Replacement: 5 Things Drivers Need to Know

March 15th, 2022

Replacing your vehicle's radiator is no small task. When your engine overheats most everyone assumes it's got to be the radiator. But radiator repairs are in depth. Before you try to schedule a maintenance appointment, here are some important bits of information, including exactly what a radiator does and how hard it's going to be to replace. Our factory-trained service technicians have put together this list of five important things to know about your engine cooling system before making your appointment.

5. HOW DOES A CAR RADIATOR WORK?

Car radiators work much the same way that the radiator in your home does; collecting and then expelling heat. Your engine is kept cool from overheating through the radiator which helps to cycle hot antifreeze through small tubes and across a larger surface area. Antifreeze is cooled down as air passes through the radiator, and is then sent back to the engine where everything is kept from getting overly hot. If your radiator is not working properly, significant damage can occur to your engine.

4. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I REPLACE MY CAR'S RADIATOR?

Routine maintenance is so important to ensure your radiator lasts as long as possible. In an ideal world your radiator would last throughout the life of your car, but unforeseen issues can cause it to need a replacement well before your vehicle is at its end. Your radiator is a critical part of the vehicle, and letting it deteriorate or fail can cause additional problems with your ride. If your vehicle ever used basic water instead of routine antifreeze through the cooling system, maintenance is especially important. Water can lead to corrosion, resulting in excessive sediment blocking the radiator. Keep your engine running cool on the road ahead with a regular coolant system flush. Ask one of our expert service technicians if a coolant flush is right for you.

3. HOW DO I KNOW I NEED TO REPLACE MY CAR'S RADIATOR?

An overheating vehicle doesn't always mean its time for a radiator replacement, but there are a few signs that point in that direction. If a puddle appears under the front of your car, this is a typical sign it's time to have your radiator checked out. Antifreeze is available in a variety of colors, typically bright green, and is accompanied by a sweet smell. If you're noticing a lot of liquid pooling beneath your vehicle, the safest option is to tow to a certified service center like the one here at Capitol Chevrolet and have it checked out. Brown or rusty colored antifreeze is also a classic sign of corrosion in your engine's cooling system. Something else to look for is a small hole that may squirt coolant whenever the engine is running or shortly after you've shut off your vehicle.

2. WHAT CAN HAPPEN IF I DON'T REPLACE MY BAD RADIATOR

When your radiator fails to properly cool down the coolant, your engine can overheat quickly and drastically. Overheating can cause serious, long-term damage in the engine. When your radiator isn't working properly, you run the risk of a head gasket failure as well, which can ultimately lead to total engine failure within just a mile or two of driving. If this happens, the only option is a complete engine replacement. You'll be happy you watched your radiator for signs of needing a replacement, rather than fighting with the entire engine.

1. CAN I REPLACE MY OWN RADIATOR?

If you fancy yourself an automotive guru and want to take the time and effort to replace your own radiator, it can certainly be done. However, if you're new to car repairs and automotive work really isn't your forte, we recommend having a certified mechanic do the replacement. If you're handling the repair yourself, plan out a day of hard work and prepare a couple tools such as a jack, drain pan, socket set, and a few other key tools to complete your work. Consulting a repair guide for your vehicle is a good idea to ensure you're completing the steps accurately and correctly.