5 common causes that cause overheating problems in radiators

Having a properly working vehicle is one of the necessities of life when living on The Gold Coast, unfortunately an overheating radiator is an all too common problem.

Under normal conditions, the cooling system in a new vehicle shouldn’t need any more than normal regularly servicing, but as it starts to age or with high mileage you will need to take your vehicle to be serviced by mechanics that specialize in radiators on The Gold Coast more often.

These are five common causes of overheating:

1.      A Leak In The Cooling System

Modern cooling systems operate under pressure, a small leak can quickly force the cooling fluid out and allow air to enter causing an air block or reduce the coolant to a level where it cannot cool sufficiently. Both these will cause the system to overheat and possibly damage your engine.

Use only pure water with a quality chemical additive to stop corrosion and prevent the water from freezing in very cold conditions.

The engine block is fitted with frost plugs which are designed to pop open in the event that the liquid in the engine freezes and expands. This will stop it damaging your motor. Unfortunately, these and other areas of the engine that come into contact with the cooling liquid can corrode if there is not the proper anti corrosive ingredients added to the cooling liquid.

In an emergency, you can refill the radiator with fresh water only, but it should be replaced as soon as possible with the correct coolant mixture. Sometimes in very cold a low quality coolant additive will thicken and cause a blockage so it’s advisable to always use a high quality coolant.

2.     Blockage in the Cooling System Reducing Circulation

A stone hitting the radiator can cause some of the fine pipes and fins that help the heat disperse to become restricted reducing the flow. If the proper coolant has not been used, then corrosion can cause deposits to build up and also restrict the flow.

Using water with a high mineral content can also add to deposits inside the engine and radiator reducing its cooling abilities

Another problem is a faulty thermostat which can restrict flow. The thermostat stops the flow of coolant until the engine reaches operating temperature, at which time it opens allowing the normal flow.

3.     Low Oil Level

Oil is a vital part of the engine cooling system and removes about 70% of the engines built up heat. Oil also lubricates all the moving parts which reduces friction and in turn stops excessive heat build up.

4.     Damaged or Broken Water Pump

Water pumps can break down with age or wear and need to be checked during each service by mechanics servicing radiators on the Gold Coast

5.     Blocked Radiator Air Intake

The grill at the front of the vehicle and the outside of the radiator needs to be kept clear and clean to allow for optimum air flow

People who regularly check their cooling system, especially their radiators on The Gold Coast should have little overheating problems. Always use a high quality anti corrosive additive and keep your engine oil topped up to avoid overheating. Ask your mechanic to check your thermostat, water pump and fan belt.