Automotive Repair Service

Does it seem like your pouring Stop Leak in your radiator on a daily basis? Or maybe you’ve resorted to duct tape as a last ditch effort to extend the life of your old radiator? Knowing when your radiator needs to be repaired or replaced can be the difference between making it to work on time or detouring to your local automotive repair service station.

The first step in car radiator repair is to flush it out. Drain the coolant and flush the radiator with cold water by sticking a garden hose in both the opening at the radiator cap and underneath the radiator in the lower fluid outlet. If your radiator still leaks even after it has been flushed clean, then replacing the entire unit is likely your next step.

Likewise, if the exterior of the unit is rusting, oxidized or fittings become impossible to remove, then it’s time to replace the radiator.

Replace the radiator if you are adding water or coolant on a regular basis. Even if you don't see signs of a leak, fluid may still be escaping by turning into steam. This indicates that your cooling system is not doing its job, and that an overheated engine is right around the corner. You can attempt a do-it-yourself automotive repair service or visit your local mechanic to assist you with what steps you need to take for this specific repair.

Recognize that it's time to replace your radiator and all of the hoses if your car is overheating repeatedly, despite any precautions you have taken to reduce leaks. Duct tape and leak sealers are only temporary solutions, and should only be used in emergency situations. If you have to keep reapplying these methods, it's time to replace the radiator or make a trip to your local automotive repair service station.

Use online resources to learn more about your car's cooling system and how to perform basic maintenance on radiators and any other automotive repair service. Or if you’re having trouble performing the maintenance on your own, visit a complete auto repair service shop in your area to keep your car running smoothly.