
The radiator, thermostat, and water pump are part of the cooling system, and together they perform the critical task of keeping your car’s engine cool. Overheating is one of the first indications of radiator problems. The following signs will warn you when you need to get to your Chevy dealer for a radiator repair to avoid extensive engine damage and high repair costs.
Constant High-Temperature Readings
Every component in your car’s cooling system must properly function to keep the engine cool. A constant high-temperature reading could be due to low fluids or a broken or malfunctioning thermostat. When the thermostat is not working properly, an incorrect amount of fluid will be released, and your car will overheat.
An overheating issue will not go away on its own. Your Chevrolet technician will quickly determine what is causing the problem and repair it effectively before the heat damages other vehicle components.
Overheating When Idling
When your car overheats when idling, the culprit is most likely the cooling system. If your vehicle overheats while idling, the radiator fan might be malfunctioning. If your car is overheating, pull over. You need to turn off the engine and wait for it to cool down. In the case of overheating, ask your Chevrolet technician to inspect your vehicle’s cooling system as soon as possible.
A Coolant Leak
If you have to fill up the coolant more often, it might indicate that your car is leaking coolant. Check under your vehicle, and if you spot bright green, pink, orange, or yellow puddles, coolant is leaking out. The leak could be from a degraded or loose hose or the radiator itself. If left unattended for too long, leaks could cause severe damage.
White Smoke From the Tailpipe
An internal coolant leak could cause white smoke to come out of your car’s tailpipe. If you see white smoke, pull over and wait until the engine is cool before you check the level of the coolant. If it’s low, there might have a coolant leak. Ask your Chevrolet technician to take a look as soon as possible.
Steam From Under the Hood
If you see steam from under the hood is a sure sign that your vehicle is overheating and that the radiator might be malfunctioning. The best cause of action is to pull over and wait for the engine to cool down. Don’t drive your car any further. Contact your dealership while you wait and ask for assistance.
A Clogged Radiator
If your car is overheating and you see a thick sludge inside the radiator, your radiator is clogged. The thick gooey substance will block the radiator and prevent the coolant from flowing freely, making it more difficult for the radiator to distribute the correct amount of coolant to the engine.
Rust and Contaminated Coolant
Rust will cause extensive damage. A sign that your radiator is rusty is when the coolant is a brownish color. Act fast and get help from your Chevy technician before the rust makes holes that cause leaks. If you don’t get the leaks repaired quickly, the problem will worsen and cost lots of money to repair.
If your car shows signs that your radiator needs repair, it’s best to schedule an appointment with a qualified Chevrolet technician. You don’t want too long to avoid more damage that will lead to expensive repairs. Contact Park Hills Chevrolet today. Our qualified and skilled Chevrolet technicians will ensure that your car’s cooling system works perfectly.
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