Owning a Toyota is like having the trust of a sturdy stallion. It’s reliable, efficient, and gets you where you need to go. But even the best cars need occasional maintenance & repairs. If you think your car is getting a bit too hot for the summer on the temperature gauge, then it might need its radiator checked.
That’s why it’s a smart idea to familiarize yourself with the signs for when your car needs a check for a serious overheating problem –the radiator!
Vann York Toyota will discuss six of the most common signs of a failing car radiator. Keep reading to learn more!
1. Rising Engine Temperatures
Pullover & turn off the engine as soon as you if you notice the temperature gauge showing an alarming reading. It is likely there is an issue with the coolant in the radiator. Do not touch the hood or open the radiator cap until the engine has cooled completely, as steam or hot coolant can cause severe burns.
Once the temperature lowers, check the coolant level and add more if necessary. Suppose the coolant is murky rather than the healthy green or orange. In that case, you might need to get your car to an adept auto mechanic for further diagnosis.
2. Leaking Coolant
Another sign that your radiator needs attention is leaking coolant. If you notice a puddle of bright green or orange liquid beneath your car, it’s likely coolant and smells sweet.
To check for leaks, park the car at a clean spot & run the engine for a few minutes before checking again. If there are still wet spots, it’s time to take your vehicle in for repairs. Leaks are no joke; if they are dripping onto pavement, that signals an overheating car. And if the coolant gets into the engine block, then the results are far worse!
3. Strange Noises
If your radiator starts making strange noises, this is also an indication that something is wrong. Familiar sounds include hissing, gurgling, or bubbling noises. These could be caused by a leak or an obstruction in the radiator. Either way, you’ll need to have a professional look at it.
Pullover & call in roadside assistance!
4. Steaming Engine Bay
If steam is coming out of the hood, this is a sure sign that something is wrong with your radiator. Pull over and switch off the car immediately to avoid any further damage. Once the engine has cooled down, check for cracks in the radiator hose or leaks around the radiator itself. If you see either of these, it’s time to head to the mechanic.
5. Car Stalling or Running Rough
Stalling & rough running are also the signs of a failing engine, clogged fuel lines, contaminated fuel, and dirty engine oil, so it can get hard to discern the issue here unless you have an OBD-2 tool with you to give you approximate stats on an engine close to non-recovery!
6. Burning Smell
Finally, if you notice any change in how your car smells, this could be a sign of overheating & engine oil burning. If you smell burning oil or rubber, pull over and call for help immediately.
If your car has been showing many signs of a disturbed or flawed radiator, you need your ride hauled in for repairs. Ignoring the problem will worsen the situation and lead to engine failure. So don’t wait – if you think there’s an issue with your radiator, get it checked out right away!
Ending Note
Toyota recommends scheduling regular check-ups so your car can be adequately maintained and catch minor problems before they turn into big ones. Trust us – your car will thank you! So, what are you waiting for?
Schedule your car check-up at Vann York Toyota, serving High Point, NC. We will make sure your car keeps running in top condition for years.
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