How to Check For a Radiator Clog

A clogged up radiator is not something you want to drive around with. Not only can it be damaging to several internal components of your vehicle, including your engine, but it can also pose several safety hazards to you and your passengers, not-to-mention, waste fuel. And with the price of gas these days, you don’t want to waste even a drop of fuel!

Do you suspect that your vehicle might have a clogged radiator? Fortunately, the signs are easy to spot. Continue reading to learn how to check for radiator clog, plus where to get cheap radiator repair services near you.

Car Radiator Repair Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846
Car Radiator Repair Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846

Car Radiator Problems

The radiator in your car is designed to regulate the internal temperatures of your engine. The engine creates high levels of heat and friction, which can melt and corrode the internal parts of your engine block, pistons, gaskets, spark plugs, and more without proper levels of radiator fluid, also known as coolant or anti-freeze. For this reason, it is important to regularly refill your radiator fluid to ensure that your engine temperature is properly regulated as you drive.

Cracks in the radiator and other radiator damages, such as clogs, can cause serious disruptions in radiator performance because it does not allow the coolant to run through the engine and absorb the excess heat. Once the coolant reaches the radiator, the radiator cools it down so that it can be used again to regulate the temperature of the engine. The radiator fluid follows this cycle as you drive to control the temperatures of the engine.

DIY Guide to Checking for a Clogged Radiator

Below are the steps to follow if you wish to identify and diagnose a clogged radiator on your own. Ultimately, it is important that you take your car into an Indianapolis automotive repair shop for radiator repair and service. This will ensure that your vehicle is optimized in terms of safety and performance.

Begin with a cool engine. Before attempting to diagnose a clogged radiator.

Once you know you are working with the cool engine, pop the hood, latch it in place, then locate and remove the cap to the radiator reservoir.

Next, start your vehicle. You will need to wait a couple of minutes for the thermostat to open up. While standing there, be ready to make your observations.

After two minutes or so, the coolant should be circulating. Using a flashlight, look into the radiator. If the coolant flow looks even and balanced, you probably do not have a clogged radiator. However, if you notice that the coolant flow looks unsteady or imbalanced, it is indicative of a clogged radiator.

Whether the coolant looked even or not, use this next method to check if you have radiator clock. You will need a partner to lightly rev the car engine while you gently squeeze the radiator hose. If the hose stiffens as your friend revs the engine, it is suggestive of a radiator clog.

Are you looking for an affordable Indianapolis automotive mechanic who can help you solve your vehicles fuel inefficiencies and maintenance problems? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional, ASE-licensed radiator repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out our auto shop coupons, too!

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Quick Review on How to Flush a Car Radiator

When you get in your car and turn the ignition, the engine fires up and the car instantly begins producing heat.  It continues to produce high levels of heat as you drive. The job of the car’s radiator is to cool the engine so that it doesn’t overheat. It does this by transferring heat through the process of thermal heat exchange. If a vehicle has a larger engine; for instance, a truck, then a larger radiator would be needed to withstand the extra power and heat production.

Generally, radiators are manufactured with aluminum.  This is because it is durable, lightweight, and disperses heat evenly, more so than other metals. It is important to have a general understanding about radiators in cars, trucks, and any other type of vehicle you intend on working with.  Do-it-yourself car maintenance can be risky if you do not know what you are doing. 

If you have a good comprehension on cars and regular maintenance, then continue reading to learn tips and advice on proper ways to flush a car’s radiator. If not, then call a professional auto repair company that can instruct you with the right information for radiator repair and service.

Indianapolis Radiator Repair and Service
Indianapolis Radiator Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Considerations When Flushing Your Car’s Radiator:

It is crucial to clean out your radiator routinely.  Solid deposits can build up inside the radiator causing the entire system to function irregularly.  This can lead to your car overheating or more serious damages.  A clean radiator stays much cooler as well.  Luckily, radiator flushing doesn’t cost much and is pretty easy to do as long as you are familiar with DIY car maintenance! 

First, be sure you have all the necessary equipment and products to get the job done correctly and safely.  These items would typically include a funnel, a cloth rag, coolant, flush solution, a bucket or coolant catcher, and a Phillips screw driver.

Never start a radiator job on a hot car or engine.  Let the system cool down entirely.  This could take up to two or three hours depending on how long the car was driven prior.  Spilling hot coolant on you can be very dangerous, and lead to second, and possibly third, degree burns.  

Avoid leaving coolant exposed and out in the open.  Pets, animals, and even children can be harmed by ingesting the fluid.  You see, coolant has a sweet smell and taste, which can attract these types of victims.  Always be responsible with coolant disposal as well.

UH OH. Didn’t work? Enlist an ASE licensed mechanic for the job! Professional car radiator flushing is fast and affordable!

Indianapolis Car Radiator and Exhaust Services

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE certified automotive radiator service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide comprehensive automotive service and repair for all make and model vehicles, as well as, free estimates, free advice, and auto repair coupons! Schedule an appointment for a free estimate, today!

ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846