Why Do I Need A Radiator In My Car?

All radiators, in vehicles or other applications, do the same job. They dissipate heat from the liquid flowing through them into the atmosphere. The purpose of a radiator in a car is to lower the temperature of the hot liquid coming from your engine & return it cooled. This then reduces the heat that is produced through the normal running of the motor. The cooling is achieved by air flowing over the large surface area of the radiator itself.

Airflow and why it is so important for my radiator

If for some reason air is prevented from flowing over the fins of the radiator, it cannot perform its cooling function. When driving forward a car creates it’s own airflow but when stationary or moving slowly this has to be created by using a radiator fan. Of course, if the fan is not working you may experience an overheating car, particularly if you are driving at low speed in traffic. Sometimes the radiator could be blocked up with dirt and grime which again will not allow for proper airflow.

Coolant In The Radiator

The fluid that flows through your radiator (called coolant) is the lifeblood of the cooling system. It is a precise mix of water and an additive (antifreeze) that is recommended for use in your vehicle. The level of coolant must be checked regularly and if liquid is being lost from the system there is probably a leak somewhere. If a leak exists a radiator repair expert can locate and repair it before it becomes a costly issue. Coolant degrades with use and periodically needs to be replaced. Your vehicle also needs a radiator flush about once a year to get rid of deposits that have built up through normal operation. Leak detection, radiator leak repair and regular maintenance of your radiator & radiator hoses are standard services offered by all ADRAD agents throughout New Zealand.

Radiator Maintenance In Cars

To avoid the troublesome issue of your vehicle overheating radiators need to be maintained on a regular basis. Some of this can be done by the vehicle owner, for example, checking on the radiator coolant level or inspecting the radiator cap. 

Most other procedures like radiator leak detection, cooling system flush and radiator repairs are best handled by an expert at a radiator repair shop.

Via: ADRAD Radiator Repair