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Tag: radiator repair Albuquerque

5 Signs You Need Radiator Repair Services

Written by bherreraRGA on . Posted in Radiator Repair Albuquerque. No Comments on 5 Signs You Need Radiator Repair Services

Signs are an important part of responsible driving in and around Albuquerque. They tell you when to stop or go, whether you need to yield to oncoming traffic, and if you’ve taken the correct exit to get to your destination.

Another kind of sign drivers can experience behind the wheel are the cries for help from their vehicle. While they may not be as obvious as street signs, they can provide ample warning that you need to get your automobile to a mechanic ASAP.

It’s never a good idea to ignore these subtle signals, especially if they’re about the health of your vehicle’s radiator.

In this blog, we reveal 5 of the tell-tale signs you need radiator repair in Albuquerque.

A large puddle of green antifreeze lays on the ground near where a vehicle that was leaking coolant was previously parked.
A stream of antifreeze lays on the ground where a vehicle was parked that was leaking the coolant.

1 – Coolant Leaks

Noticeable coolant leaks are a clear indication your radiator needs attention. Puddles of coolant drip beneath your vehicle when it’s parked in the same location for an extended period.

Fresh antifreeze is brightly-colored and is usually blue, green, orange, pink, or yellow. If you’re not sure which color coolant your vehicle takes, check the owner’s manual.

Not sure how to tell if that fluid you see beneath your car or truck is radiator coolant? Here are some tips for verifying what you’re seeing.

  • Color. While radiator coolant comes in different colors, you can verify if what you’re seeing on the ground matches your coolant by examining the liquid still inside the radiator. To do this, remove the coolant reservoir cap and look inside. If what you see inside the radiator doesn’t match puddles under your vehicle, it’s unlikely they’re radiator fluid.
  • Smell. Coolant has a distinctive sweet smell. It’s one of the reasons animals are attracted to it and can die from drinking it. Take a whiff of the pooled liquid to see how it smells. Never inhale it directly because it’s toxic.

2 – Low Coolant Levels

Do you find yourself frequently adding coolant to your vehicle’s reservoir? A healthy radiator should retain coolant within the system until it is flushed and refilled. If you’re radiator always needs topping off, it’s time to visit a mechanic that performs radiator repair in Albuquerque.

If you’re not sure whether your vehicle’s coolant levels are low, here are some steps for monitoring it.

  • Step 1 – Park your car and turn off the engine. You should never open your radiator while the engine is running.
  • Step 2 – Locate the radiator. If you’re unsure where it’s found under the hood, refer to your owner’s manual.
  • Step 3 – Identify the coolant reservoir. Most modern vehicles have a separate coolant reservoir, sometimes called an overflow tank. It’s connected to the radiator and usually consists of translucent plastic with markings to indicate minimum and maximum coolant levels.
  • Step 4 – Check the coolant reservoir. Look at the markings on the side of the reservoir to determine its current levels. Ideally, the coolant level should be somewhere between the minimum and maximum markers.
  • Step 5 – Inspect the radiator cap. Some vehicles have the coolant fill cap on the radiator, while others put it on the coolant reservoir. You can check the coolant directly from the cap. However, never open the radiator when it’s hot unless you have no other choice. Use a towel to carefully remove it when ready.
  • Step 6 – Add coolant if necessary. If your coolant levels are below the recommended minimum, slowly pour in fresh coolant until you hit that sweet spot between the minimum and maximum fill lines. Make sure you replace the cap tightly when finished.

If you had to add radiator fluid, follow up with a visit to a trusted mechanic who offers radiator repair in Albuquerque and can identify and address any underlying issues.

A temperature gauge in a vehicle's dashboard with the needle in the red zone to indicate it's time to visit a radiator repair technician in Albuquerque.
If your temperature reading consistently inches toward the red zone on the gauge, it’s time to have your radiator checked by a repair technician.

3 – Overheating Engine

A vehicle’s engine overheats for a few reasons. A malfunctioning radiator is one of them. If your automobile’s engine frequently runs hotter than normal or overheats, get yourself – and your car or truck – to a trusted mechanic and request a radiator inspection.

The primary job of a radiator is to cool down the engine. When it fails to function as intended, your engine can overheat, causing other, more expensive damage to your vehicle.

Signs your engine is overheating include:

  • High engine temperature gauge reading. Every vehicle comes with a gauge that measures the engine’s temperature. You’ll see a normal operating range and a “red zone” that indicates your engine is having trouble cooling down.
  • Steam or smoking from the engine bay. This is usually a final warning that your engine has overheated from a faulty radiator. When it happens, the coolant boils and evaporates due to excessive heat.
Two radiator caps sit side by side. The one on the left is shiny and new. The one on the right shows corrosion.
Radiator caps are one of the first parts that can corrode. If you notice corrosion, consult a radiator repair technician immediately.

4 – Rust or Corrosion

Make it a regular practice to inspect your radiator for signs of corrosion, mineral deposits, and rust. All three can build up over time, blocking the flow of coolant. When coolant can’t freely move throughout the radiator, your vehicle’s engine can overheat.

Some parts of the radiator are more prone to corrosion than others. They include:

  • Connectors, fittings, and hose clamps. Your radiator has many of these, all of which attach to the cooling system to enable proper flow. Because they’re made from metal, they’re more susceptible to corrosion than other parts of the radiator. Ignoring the corrosion of these parts can lead to coolant leaks.
  • Core tubes. Typically made of metal, these tubes can corrode (and leak) when coolant isn’t properly maintained or contains contaminants.
  • Fins. These thick, delicate metal pieces help dissipate heat from the coolant. They can corrode over time due to exposure to moisture, road debris, and other contaminants in the air. Once that happens, they become inefficient at cooling the engine.

5 – Sludge

When you perform your regular coolant checks, keep a watchful eye out for any debris floating in it or a sludge-like appearance. Neither is good for the radiator, and both signal a serious problem that needs addressing immediately.

Debris and sludge can clog the radiator, making it difficult for it to circulate the coolant effectively. Your engine eventually overheats. If ignored long enough, you can end up with expensive repairs to the radiator and engine.

Radiator Repair in Albuquerque

Don’t trust the care of your vehicle’s radiator to anyone. The skilled mechanics at Rio Grande Automotive know the ins and outs of radiator inspection and repair for domestic and foreign models.

The next time you need radiator repair in Albuquerque, give us a call or stop by the shop to schedule an appointment.

Big Guide on Radiator Repair and Maintenance

Written by bherreraRGA on . Posted in Radiator Repair Albuquerque. No Comments on Big Guide on Radiator Repair and Maintenance

Radiator repair and maintenance is an important part of keeping your vehicle running smoothly in Albuquerque. Unfortunately, some owners overlook this critical component, leading to severe damage and costly repairs.

A radiator’s main job is to keep your engine cool. With average summertime temps hovering in the low- to mid-90s in Albuquerque, your radiator can work overtime in the heat. Make sure it receives the attention it deserves to keep your automobile in peak operating condition.

In this big guide on radiator repair and maintenance, we provide a comprehensive guide on how to prevent problems and extend the longevity of your vehicle by taking proper care of its radiator. In this blog you’ll discover:

  • What is a radiator?
  • What are the signs of a faulty radiator?
  • What is the importance of radiator maintenance?
  • What are some common radiator problems?
  • How do you repair your radiator?
  • Can you upgrade your radiator to improve performance?

What is a radiator?

A radiator is an essential component of a vehicle’s cooling system. Without it, your automobile’s engine would overheat and stop running.

Radiators typically are made of thin, metal fins and tubes designed to dissipate heat from the engine coolant that passes through it. Most vehicle manufacturers position the radiator behind the grille at the front of your vehicle so it can receive adequate airflow when the vehicle is moving.

How radiators work

Hot coolant flows through the radiator, transfers its heat to the fins and tubes, and then releases it into the air passing through. This heat exchange process regulates the temperature of the engine and prevents it from overheating.

A woman calls for help on her cell phone while stranded along the side of the road with a steaming radiator. Radiator repair in Albuquerque is necessary if your radiator starts spitting steam. It means it can't cool the engine properly.
Steam coming from your radiator is never a good sign.

What are the signs of a faulty radiator?

Some people miss the signs of a faulty radiator because they’re sometimes difficult to spot right away. Tell-tale signals your radiator is overworked and in need of attention by an automotive technician specializing in radiator repair in Albuquerque include:

  • Discolored coolant. Over time, the coolant in your vehicle becomes dirty and discolored. If it’s rusty or has debris floating in it, that’s a sign the radiator has corroded and requires immediate attention.
  • Leaking coolant. A leak in the radiator or one of its hoses can cause coolant to leak out and reduce the radiator’s effectiveness in cooling the engine. If you see puddles of greenish fluid pooling under your car or truck, you’ll want to have a radiator repair technician diagnose it immediately.
  • Overheating engine. One of the most obvious signs of a failing radiator is an overheating engine. If your vehicle’s warning systems alert you to an engine that’s running hot, it’s probably due to a lack of coolant in the engine.
  • Steam from the engine. If you notice steam or smoke coming from under your hood, it could be signaling a coolant leak.
  • Unusual noises. Faulty radiators can hiss or make whistling sounds when air or steam become trapped in the system.

If you notice any of these signs, take your vehicle to a radiator repair shop in Albuquerque for further inspection and repair.

How to diagnose a faulty radiator

When you take your vehicle to an automotive technician specializing in radiator repair in Albuquerque, they follow specific steps to diagnose the problem.

  • Check coolant levels in the radiator and overflow tank to detect any leaks.
  • Check for blockages in the fins or tubes.
  • Inspect the radiator cap to ensure it’s maintaining the correct pressure in the cooling system.
  • Test the thermostat to ensure it’s functioning properly to prevent coolant from flowing too fast or slow.
  • Use a pressure tester to check for leaks and other problems.

Radiator repair shops have special tools that can quickly diagnose and repair a faulty radiator so you can prevent the kind of damage that leads to costly repairs.

A person wearing a white glove pours fresh radiator fluid into a vehicle's radiator as part of a fill and flush service. Replacing radiator fluid per the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule prevents costly radiator repairs in Albuquerque.

What is the importance of radiator maintenance?

You wouldn’t go months without changing your engine oil (at least we hope you wouldn’t). Radiator maintenance is just as crucial for keeping your vehicle running smoothly and extending its life.

Some of the reasons why you must have a radiator repair shop inspect your radiator regularly include:

  • Extends the life of the radiator. Regular maintenance extends the life of your radiator by preventing corrosion, leaks, and other issues that require costly repairs or replacement.
  • Improves fuel efficiency. When your engine fails to run at the proper temperature, you may find your fuel efficiency suffering. Overheating makes your engine work harder, which means it needs more gasoline.
  • Prevents overheating. The main purpose of the radiator is to prevent your engine from overheating. When you fail to flush and replace your radiator fluid according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, you risk it failing to work, causing expensive damage to the engine.

Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule keeps your radiator in good working order and your vehicle at peak performance.

What are some common radiator problems?

Some radiator problems are more common than others. The issues you can encounter depend on several factors, including how much care you take to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for your make and model.

If you’re going to encounter issues, here are some of the most likely scenarios.

  • Clogs in the radiator prevent the coolant from flowing through the system correctly. Debris, dirt, and rust buildup all contribute to radiator clogs.
  • Corrosion is often caused by degraded or old radiator coolant or explosion to harsh conditions. Over time, it causes leaks, clogs, and other problems.
  • Fan malfunctions prevent the radiator from pulling air through to regulate the temperature of the coolant.
  • Leaks in the clamps, hoses, and connections are the most common radiator problem.
  • Radiator cap issues can cause the coolant to evaporate, making it difficult to maintain the correct pressure in the cooling system.
  • Thermostat failure leads to coolant flowing too fast or slow, which can cause your engine to overheat.

If you experience any of these common radiator problems, take your vehicle to a trusted radiator repair shop for diagnosis and repair.

A radiator repair technician in Albuquerque welds a leak in an old radiator.
Most radiator repairs require the knowledge and skill of a radiator repair technician.

How do you repair your radiator?

How you repair your radiator depends on the type of problem you’re having. You can resolve some issues yourself – or apply a temporary fix until you can get it into a repair shop.

One of the simplest radiator maintenance jobs involves a radiator flush. You drain the old coolant from the radiator and replace it with fresh coolant. Most vehicle owners can do this themselves with basic knowledge and tools. However, if you’re not comfortable trying it, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.

If you discover a leak in your radiator, you can probably slow or stop it completely with a radiator sealant or epoxy. Complicated leaks require the expertise of a radiator repair technician, so make sure you follow up with one to make sure the leak is repaired.

When to seek professional help

Seeking professional help with radiator repairs is required under certain circumstances. For instance, if your radiator fan is malfunctioning, that’s a job best suited to an automotive technician specializing in radiator repair in Albuquerque.

Severely corroded or damaged radiators need replacing. This is a complex repair most vehicle owners have neither the knowledge nor the tools to perform themselves. Radiator replacement is a complicated procedure best left to professionals.

A brand new radiator sits next to a vehicle that's waiting to receive it.
Upgrading your radiator can improve vehicle performance in some instances.

Can you upgrade your radiator to improve performance?

Upgrading your vehicle’s radiator can improve performance under certain conditions. Some of the ways that upgrading your radiator can enhance your vehicle’s functioning include:

  • Better heat dissipation. Upgraded radiators may have better designs or materials compared with your original model. Better heat dissipation improves performance by reducing the risk of heat-related issues.
  • Higher durability. Newer radiators may consist of stronger materials or contain reinforced components that allow them to withstand harsh conditions or heavy usage.
  • Improved airflow. Some upgraded radiators may have better designs that allow for more improved airflow. Your engine can run at peak performance when it runs at its ideal temperature.
  • Increased cooling capacity. A larger or more efficient radiator provides better cooling capacity, which prevents overheating and improves your vehicle’s gas mileage.

Never try to upgrade your radiator yourself. It’s important you make sure the new radiator is compatible with the make and model of your domestic or foreign vehicle. Also, if you have a manufacturer’s or extended warranty on your vehicle, performing the work yourself might void it.

Radiator repair in Albuquerque

Need radiator repair in Albuquerque? You can trust Rio Grande Automotive to diagnose and repair radiators for domestic and foreign vehicles.

Our team has the expertise to spot issues before they cause expensive or irreversible damage. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment for diagnosis or repair.

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