Are you worried that a faulty or clogged radiator could leave your car overheating?
Even if you have a good handle on how your car works, all motors have a minimum level of maintenance that you have to perform regularly to keep them running for as long as possible. Otherwise, you could find yourself needing expensive repairs, with no means to pay for them.
If you’ve got a cool automotive streak running through your veins, and you’re looking for radiator maintenance tips, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a quick and easy guide to keeping your car in fine working order.
1. Check Your Radiator Fluid Levels Regularly
These levels should be checked at least once a month, and more often if you notice your engine running hotter than usual.
If the levels are low, it could be a sign of a leak. To check these, simply open the radiator cap and look inside. If it is low, add more fluid until it reaches the full line.
2. Flush and Refill the Radiator
One of the most essential radiator tips is to flush and refill it on a regular basis. This will ensure that it is able to function properly and prevent any potential problems that could arise from a build-up of debris and dirt.
It is important to note that the radiator should be flushed with a solution that is specifically designed for this purpose, as using a regular detergent can actually cause damage to the radiator.
3. Never Load Your Car Excessively
Your vehicle’s radiator must work harder to cool it down the heavier the load it is carrying. As the load on the engine increases, overloading is a key cause of overheating.
The recommendation of the automobile radiator manufacturer for your car’s maximum load should be followed.
If you’re tempted to overload, consider trying to steer it while it’s moving at a high rate of speed with an overheated engine and a belt that isn’t running the power steering pump.
4. Maintain and Examine Hoses
Coolant will leak from the radiator if a radiator hose separates, either due to the clamp failing, the hose dehydrating and cracking, or the hose bursting under too much pressure.
Additionally, if you don’t notice a detached hose, your car will overheat quickly, which will alert you to an issue.
5. Get Your Used Auto Parts From a Reputable Store
It’s crucial to always get used radiators from a trustworthy and experienced used auto parts store before you even start on all the preventive maintenance tasks you’ll need to attend to.
Radiator Maintenance: What to Do and What to Avoid
One of the most important aspects of radiator maintenance is to keep the coolant level topped up. The coolant level should be checked regularly and topped up as required.
It is also important to keep the radiator clean. Dirt and debris can build up over time and reduce the efficiency of the radiator. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives when cleaning the radiator as this can damage the surface.
Feel free to visit any of our other blogs if you want to learn more about auto and motor issues that will benefit your company.