What are the symptoms of a clogged radiator?
2 Answers
When the radiator is clogged internally, it will cause the coolant to stop circulating and lead to radiator leakage. Here is additional information: 1. Consequences of a clogged car radiator: The coolant cannot effectively circulate between the radiator and the engine, reducing the radiator's cooling performance. The reduced cooling performance of the radiator causes the engine temperature to rise rapidly. If the engine continues to operate under these conditions, it may result in cylinder scoring. 2. Reasons for excessively high radiator temperature: If the idle speed is too low when the air conditioning is on, it can cause high water temperature. Check if the air conditioning idle speed booster is functioning properly. An uneven cylinder head surface or a blown head gasket can also lead to high water temperature. Faulty components in the engine cooling system can cause excessively high water temperature; these parts should be inspected and replaced. If the engine is drained or severely low on coolant, and after the first refill, air is not completely purged from the system, it may cause vapor lock, leading to excessively high engine temperature.
I remember last time when driving to the countryside, the temperature gauge suddenly shot up to the red line halfway, and steam was coming out from under the hood. I quickly pulled over. This is a classic symptom of a clogged radiator: abnormally high water temperature, the engine roaring as if about to burst, the fan spinning wildly but producing little cool air. The temperature inside the car also rose, and the air conditioning couldn't blow cold air. After stopping to check, I found the coolant boiling, and upon opening the cap, a strong rusty smell hit my nose. The cause is often the accumulation of scale or sediment blocking the water channels, affecting circulation. Not changing the coolant for a long time or using poor-quality water can easily lead to this. That time, I had to tow it to the repair shop, where the mechanic cleared the blockage before it returned to normal. Now, every summer, I proactively check the coolant color and sediment to avoid suffering again. Delaying repairs could lead to engine cylinder scoring, costing tens of thousands in repairs—can't afford to be careless.
