Wondering what are the Signs of a Bad Radiator?

It’s the middle of summer and most people have either been on a summer road trip or are getting ready to head down the road.  If you have not already taken care of servicing your radiator and cooling system, it’s not too late.  It is wise to know the signs of a bad radiator so that you are not left stranded on the side of the road with an overheating engine, looking for a mechanic that can replace radiator.

Need to know what are the signs of a bad radiator?  Here are three common issues to watch for: 

• A hot engine – Overheating will occur when the coolant cannot get to where it needs to go to cool the engine.  The hoses could be clogged, or the level of coolant is too low.  If this is happening, there should be a warning light on the dashboard, or the temperature gauge will rise to the hot zone.  Get your car off the road immediately to prevent damaging your engine.
• Leaking coolant – If there is a cracked hose, or the radiator is corroded with rust, you may notice the smell of antifreeze or a tell-tale puddle on the garage floor.  You may want to replace radiator at this point.
• A smoking car – If there is smoke coming from under the hood, it may simply be coolant that has leaked onto the motor and is being burnt off. However, smoke coming from the muffler could mean that the head gasket has been damaged by the engine overheating.

Routine radiator inspections are important.  Ask your mechanic to inspect the hoses and radiator unit for leaking and to make sure the antifreeze/water mixture is still effective.  A flush of the cooling system may be suggested, or the coolant level may simply need to be topped off.  

Have you checked out your Vehicle Brakes with Quality Brake Service?

Do you remember when you checked out those brake hoses last time? Ensure your vehicle brakes are in good condition and your hoses are kinks free. Quality brake repairs are more critical of keeping you, your loved ones and other drivers safe on the road. In order to avoid your vehicle brake failure, you should add brake service to your regular vehicle maintenance to keep you or your loved ones safe on the road.

Brake hoses can kink, break and fittings can reveal at the brake caliper. Certain break lines/hoses has rubber tubing; the rubber becomes too old, weak and crack causing the hose to leak. Road debris can damage your hoses resulting in need of brake replacement or repair. During the brake service, brake pads should also be checked out. Replacing defective hoses and brake pads can save the life of the rotors.

Three reasons you may know why your vehicle’s brakes should be serviced regularly:

• Keeping future maintenance costs down 
• Maintaining top braking performance 
• Safety and security

Taking care of needed brake repairs service may help avoid a potential accident due to failing brakes, and it may assist in keeping your vehicle insurance premiums from rising.

Worried about your vehicle brakes? By leaving it to an ASE Certified Brake repair expert at Clausen Automotive – you don't need to worry! In fact, here at Clausen Automotive we've been serving all vehicle owners in Madison, WI and the nearby area since 1975. Here at The Hybrid shop, you can reach us for more information about brake service and repairs and even schedule your appointment now too.