What radiator problems could cause a car to overheat?
My engine has been running hot recently and I’m afraid it’s going to overheat. I haven’t had my radiator serviced in a while – could radiator problems cause a car to overheat?
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
If your radiator is having issues, it could definitely cause your car to overheat!
If your engine is running hot and you haven’t had your radiator checked in a while, here are some of the likely culprits:
Leaking hoses: If one of the radiator hoses carrying coolant is leaking or otherwise damaged, your engine isn’t getting cooled like it should which will lead to overheating.
Broken radiator fan: The radiator fan pulls cool air into the radiator to help cool things down. If it’s not functioning, the engine temperature will spike.
Clogged hoses: Mineral deposits, debris, and by-products can gunk up your radiator and hoses, especially if your system hasn’t been flushed in a while.
If your engine is overheating, you need to take it to a mechanic as soon as possible so they can flush the system and replace any leaking or clogged hoses.
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