How to Determine If Your Radiator Should Be Replaced（2）

A Thermostat Goes Bad

Another factor that can lead to radiator problems is if a thermostat fails. Although the thermostat is not part of the radiator, it is vital in helping the radiator function properly. The thermostat is one of the most common factors that leads to an engine overheating. If the thermostat fails, then the vehicle will start to overheat at a rapid pace.

Air is Present in the Cooling System

There are instances when air can become trapped in the cooling system. If this occurs, then it will prevent the coolant from flowing properly, which will result in the coolant not working like it should. If a vehicle is running hot due to trapped air, then a mechanic can remove air bubbles that accumulated in the cooling system.

The Water Pump Fails

If a water pump fails, then the cooling system will not be able to pump the coolant throughout the engine and regulate the temperature properly. As water travels through the radiator, it goes into the pump and the engine and then moves back into the radiator. When the water pump fails, then a vehicle will more than likely overheat because the circulation is no longer functioning effectively. A failed water pump is common among radiator problems.

An Obstruction in the Cooling System

If there is an obstruction in the cooling system, then it will block the the cooling passages. When the engine and radiator do not receive the right flow of coolant, then it it can cause radiator problems. Obstructions can also happen if air is restricted to flow through the radiator. When air is not able to flow through the radiator, then the radiator will not be able to properly transfer heat to the air.

If there are signs that your vehicle is overheating due to radiator problems, then it is vital to locate and repair the problem quickly. If a faulty radiator is not repaired, then it could also cause damage to the transmission if the transmission fluid is cooled using the radiator. It’s much easier and less expensive to correct a problem with your cooling system than it is to repair your transmission.