What are the reasons for the frequent rise in radiator temperature?
2 Answers
The reasons for the frequent rise in radiator temperature are: 1. Scale deposits in the radiator and engine water jacket, leading to poor heat dissipation and increased water temperature; 2. Damaged thermostat, preventing coolant from circulating into the radiator; 3. Damaged water pump or slipping drive belt causing poor pump performance; 4. Insufficient antifreeze leading to poor engine heat dissipation; 5. Cooling fan malfunction or low speed. The solutions for frequent radiator temperature rise are: 1. Clean the scale deposits in the engine; 2. Inspect or replace the thermostat; 3. Inspect or replace the water pump; 4. Add antifreeze to the engine; 5. Check the cause of fan malfunction or low speed.
We veteran mechanics have seen plenty of overheating issues, and there are usually several key causes to check: The most common is poor heat dissipation due to clogged radiator fins with dust and insects, especially noticeable when running the AC in summer. If the thermostat gets stuck closed, coolant can't circulate to cool down. Worn or leaking water pump impellers disrupt coolant flow. Insufficient or degraded coolant is another chronic issue, particularly with antifreeze that's over two years old losing effectiveness. Cooling fan failure could stem from blown fuses or faulty temperature switches, while post-collision radiator deformation may cause leaks and temperature spikes. Long-term engine bay grime coating the radiator acts like a blanket over the fins. We recommend first rinsing the radiator surface with clean water, regularly checking coolant levels and color, and replacing the entire coolant system fluid every two years without fail.
