3 Symptoms of A Clogged Radiator

What are the symptoms of a clogged radiator?

1. Discolored coolant
2. Broken water pump
3. Damaged radiator fins

All vehicles that are powered by a combustion engine will need to have a cooling mechanism to avoid overheating. This is the job of the radiator, which is essential to lower the temperature of the hot fluid produced by the engine and then return it cooled. In this way, as the motor is running, the reduction of high heat creates an improved airflow in the engine. Sometimes, however, symptoms of a clogged radiator may begin manifesting, indicating that this vehicle component can’t properly do its job. Every car owner has to be aware of these most common symptoms as a way of maintaining the radiator and also increasing the longevity of their vehicles.

In this guide, you’ll learn more about the tell-tale signs that your radiator is clogged. From a discolored coolant to a damaged radiator fin, all of these are indications that there is something wrong with this component and that it should receive immediate attention. Read on to learn more.

Discolored Coolant

Coolant is the neon green, almost yellow-like liquid flowing through your vehicle’s engine and radiator. As mentioned before, this coolant is responsible for transferring heat away from the surrounding parts of the engine and returning it at a low temperature.

Over time, however, the radiator coolant may get discolored due to contaminants. Rust, sludge, debris, and dust might mix into the coolant, which then turns it into rust or dirt-like color. When left unaddressed, this could lead to the potential buildup of sludge, thereby preventing the coolant from conducting proper airflow.

You should make it a habit to conduct regular inspection of your coolant by opening the cap on your radiator. If it’s discolored, make sure you drain it through the drain cock. Coolant replacement products will usually come with a manufacturer’s recommendation on how to fill up the coolant reservoir. But if you’re unsure, it’s best to take your vehicle to a maintenance or servicing shop.

Broken Water Pump

The car water pump is crucial in transporting water from the radiator and moving it back to ensure that the radiator is maintained at a constant temperature despite weather changes. With a broken water pump, not only will this function fail, but the coolant will be prevented from flowing into the pump, leading to engine parts grinding against each other.

A broken water pump is usually a symptom of another symptom, such as a coolant leak, corrosion, or whining sounds resulting from a loose pump pulley. Anytime that you witness either or a combination of these symptoms, you have to immediately contact a mechanic to take your car for further inspection and repair.

Damaged Radiator Fins

Radiator fins, also known as cooling fins, are the parts of the radiator that absorb heat from the coolant as it starts entering the tubes. Through the fins, heat is then released into the surrounding air, effectively cooling it.

When too many fins have been damaged, this can cause clogging or blockage of the radiator, which maya lead to a potential overheat. As always, if you can’t disassemble parts of your car to check on the coolant, have an auto repair sh op do this for you. See to it that your vehicle is maintained at a consistent schedule to spot if there are any damages on the cooling fins.

Key Takeaway

Some of the most common symptoms of a clogged radiator include the following: damaged radiator fins, discolored coolant, and a broken water pump. Natural wear and tear of your vehicle’s components will eventually lead to these issues, but this doesn’t mean that you can’t slow it down. Instead, practice proper car maintenance habits such as conducting inspections and taking the vehicle to a mechanic whenever possible. Doing these is crucial in maintaining your radiator as well as other parts of your car’s engine.