Automotive Radiators
If steam is pouring from your hood, a warning light is glowing bright red on your dashboard, or the needle in the temperature gauge is cosying up to the high mark – it’s time to pull off the road and turn off the engine before it fries. The radiator is the main component in your vehicle’s cooling system and failing to replace a faulty or leaking radiator can lead to expensive engine damage if overheating occurs.
Not to worry, we can not only replace your leaking radiator but can also test all other cooling system components to give you piece of mind over the hotter months. Here are a few signs your radiator or other cooling system components may require replacement.
Coolant puddle
Designed as a heat exchanger, your vehicle’s radiator uses a liquid-based coolant that’s in the fluid to help air the cooling process. The easiest way to spot a leaking radiator is to keep an eye on your garage floor or driveway. It’s important to remember that coolants come in a number of different colours, but leaking fluid will typically look sticky, and bright green, orange or pink in colour. If you happen to see a puddle of coolant under your vehicle, be sure to get in contact with one of our centres as soon as possible and get to the bottom of the issue.
Overheating engine
Since the radiator cools the engine, a damaged or leaking radiator may not be doing the job it’s supposed to do. This can cause the engine heat to rise and eventually the vehicle will overheat and can damage your engine. If it’s suspected that your car’s engine has been damaged, or the overheating problem can’t be fixed at the roadside, your car can be towed to one of our service centres. But before it gets to that, regular checks of your car’s cooling system and proper servicing will significantly reduce the risk of overheating.
Constant need to refill
If you find yourself having to continually put coolant in your vehicle, this may be a sign that you have a damaged radiator that is leaking. Although the coolant needs to be filled on a regular basis, filling it up more than normal is a sign that something is wrong with your radiator. If this sounds familiar, have your coolant system checked by one of our experienced technicians before you continue to drive. We’ll be able to identify and rectify the problem – and you’ll be on your way in no time.
How is a radiator replacement carried out?
When you take your vehicle to our car servicing centre, a technician will inspect the radiator for leaks. If the radiator needs replacing, the coolant will be drained from the system – while the cooling fans, radiator hoses and transmission hoses will be removed and secured out of the way. Once this has been done, the old radiator will be removed from the vehicle and the cooling system will be flushed to remove any debris. The new radiator will be installed and the cooling fans, radiator hoses and transmission lines refitted. On top of that, the radiator will be fitted with new coolant and the system will be bled to remove any air. We’ll then perform a thorough road test on your vehicle to ensure everything is running smoothly.