Common car radiator problems and how to spot them

When it comes to your Orlando Toyota car’s engine working properly, it’s all about temperature. The exchange of temperature throughout the ignition and operating processes is key to problem-free commuting. An essential auto part in these processes is the car radiator. Without this part, things would get too hot in your engine compartment and lead to permanent damage. If problems should arise with your car radiator, you need to be prepared so you can save your vehicle from overheating which can lead to an expensive repair job. Luckily, Toyota of Orlando is here to help with an easy guide on how spot car radiator issues.

What does a car radiator do?

Your Orlando Toyota vehicle is equipped with an active cooling system that works while your engine is running to regulate temperature. The cooling system consists of the car radiator which uses several pumps, thermostats, and gaskets that all work to keep your engine temperature regulated. While your engine does get hot when running, excessive heat can damage essential parts, wear down hoses, and eventually cause your Orlando Toyota car to overheat.

A properly working car radiator funnels coolant into it and cools it using a fan. After the cooling process, the coolant is then funneled back into the engine and the process is repeated constantly. This keeps the coolant at 190-210°F which allows the engine to operate normally. A faulty radiator can lead to permanent damage for your Orlando Toyota vehicle and that’s why we’ve compiled a list of common issues that can spell trouble and how to spot them.

Rust

While rust can be trouble for the body of your Orlando Toyota vehicle, it can also affect your car radiator. Because of the rapid airflow and temperature fluctuations that happen around this engine part, rust can easily form and create holes in your hoses that will lead to radiator failure. Check the outside of your radiator assembly for rust and check the color of your coolant. If it’s dark in color, that means your radiator may be rusting from the inside and will eventually develop holes.

Leaks

Coolant leaks can happen if a radiator is left unchecked over time. The hoses on this critical Orlando Toyota engine part are prone to wear and tear as they age as are the metal clamps that keep them attached. When a hose and/or clamp fails, coolant leaks can occur. Make sure to look under your vehicle for a greenish fluid if your suspect there’s a fluid leak.

Mineral buildup

Mineral deposit buildup can occur over time as the radiator operates normally. As more mineral deposits build up, your radiator hoses can get blocked and stop operating normally which can lead to overheating. Pay attention to your Orlando Toyota car’s internal temperature gauge as you run your engine. 

Car radiator issues solved at Toyota of Orlando

Your Orlando Toyota car’s radiator is an essential auto part that must always be attended to in order to prevent permanent damage to your engine. At Toyota of Orlando, our auto service techs can make it easy with accurate diagnostics and affordable auto repairs and maintenance. Visit us at 3575 Vineland Road seven days a week!