Engines can take a lot of heat, but even they have a threshold of what is safe. Overheating engines can not only ruin your day or vacation but can lead to expensive repairs if not addressed promptly. Whether you live in the Goldsboro area or are just passing through Wayne county on your way to the beach (or piedmont), don’t forget to have your vehicle's cooling system and radiator serviced.
Radiator Service Goldsboro, NC
While the details may change from engine to engine, especially for older and antique cars, most engine cooling systems operate on a similar premise. A series of parts moves coolant throughout the engine to the radiator, where the heat disperses.
Any of the cooling system components failings can lead to the engine overheating. Here are the most common issues most motorists will run into over the lifetime of a vehicle:
- Incorrect Coolant: Every engine requires a specific coolant-to-water mix to operate correctly, and the temperature outside affects this.
- Leaks: The cooling system relies on several hoses, connections, and gaskets, all subject to wear and failure.
- Sediment: Over time, bits of sediment can make it into the system, which builds up and creates blockages that impede efficient cooling. In this case, the system needs to be flushed.
- Radiator Issues: If the radiator becomes clogged, the fan breaks, or if the volume of coolant flow is reduced due to leaks, then the automobile is prone to overheat.
- Water Pump Problems: When the pump has problems, the coolant slows down or stops circulating altogether, causing quick overheating.
If you are driving and notice the heat gauge start turning red, strange smells coming from the engine, or see smoke, you need to take action. It is essential to stop or limit driving until the cooling system is fixed. Overheating can cause a cascade of broken parts as components are subject to too much heat and begin to fail and break under strain.
Pull over as soon as you feel it is safe to do so and call for assistance. There are always situations where you can’t pull over immediately or need to move the vehicle. You can boost the natural air cooling of the engine by turning on the heat to full blast and opening your windows.
Remember Regular Maintenance!
Like most engine problems, preventative maintenance can go a long way to keeping yourself on the move and not having to pay for expensive repairs. You should always keep an eye on the temperature gauge and watch for puddles under the vehicle that may indicate leaks so that you can handle issues quickly.
Stay on top of check-ups for your vehicle and get the coolant system flushed and refilled regularly. For most engines, we recommend every 30,000 miles or five years. But you should check your vehicle's owner manual for more specific details on expected coolant system longevity.
Retro Lube
If it has been a while since you thought about your car's cooling system or think you may have an engine beginning to overheat, take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic for a check-up.
For drivers in the Goldsboro area, you will not find more experience and expertise than Retro Lube Oil Change. We have been helping car owners protect their vehicles through routine maintenance practices for many years. Don’t let the name fool you; we are more than just oil change experts. Our services include:
- Fuel Injection Cleaning
- Oil & Filter Changes
- Brake Servicing
- Radiator Fluid Flushing
- Transmission Fluid Flushing
- Tire Rotations
- NC Inspections
You can give us a call to set up an appointment or bring your car by the shop today for our radiator services. We will help you get back on the road quickly and safely.