Overheating is a huge threat to any car’s engine. The radiator plays a key role in keeping the engine cool by drawing heat from the coolant as it circulates throughout the system. If your radiator runs into trouble, head to your local Ford dealer right away for radiator repair. If you notice but ignore any of the following signs of a malfunctioning radiator, your engine could rapidly overheat and undergo permanent damage.
5 Signs Your Ford Needs a Radiator Repair
Overheating Engine
The most urgent indication of a bad radiator is an overheating engine. If your cooling system fails and the engine heats up, you’ll see the engine temperature gauge rising into the red on your dashboard. Never ignore this gauge; pull over at once, allow your engine to cool down, and call for professional assistance.
Further signs of overheating include ticking or knocking sounds, white vapor coming from under the hood, and plummeting engine power. The hood will also become hot to the touch.
Damaged Radiator Fins
It’s a good idea to visually check your radiator once in a while. If you find leaves and other debris clogging the radiator’s fins, clean it all away as the airflow between the fins is vital for dispersing the heat. If any of the fins are bent or cracked, you may need a new radiator.
Low or Leaking Coolant
You can check the level and condition of your coolant by looking at the coolant reservoir, which is typically transparent. If the coolant has sunk below the minimum level marker, top it up at once. If your coolant keeps declining in volume, you may have a leak; check under your car for puddles of fluid that matches the color of the coolant inside the reservoir. If it’s coolant, the fluid will also have a sweet smell.
Rust Inside the Radiator
When coolant grows old and deteriorates, it loses its anti-corrosion properties. As a result, it’s possible for rust to form inside the radiator. If this occurs, your coolant will gradually become discolored, fading to a rusty brown color inside the reservoir.
Rust on the Radiator
You can also look for patches of rust on the outside of the radiator. A little rust can often be cleaned away before harm is done. But if you find extensive rust, the radiator may soon leak and will probably have to go.
Your Ford Dealer Can Inspect Your Cooling System
It’s wise to have your radiator and entire cooling system inspected every 30,000 miles (you can check the recommended interval for your vehicle in the owner’s manual). Our experienced technicians can visually inspect and pressure-test various elements of your radiator, examine the rest of the cooling system, and flush the coolant if need be.Visit Jack Madden Ford Sales Inc in Norwood, MA, today to have your radiator promptly repaired or replaced. We’ve been providing top-notch service to the region’s drivers for over 70 years.
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