How to Tell If a Radiator Is Bad?

Radiators serve one of the most essential roles in the functioning of a vehicle. Radiators serve to keep your car's engine at a moderate level ensuring that it does not overheat or abruptly quit. Radiator problems are very common because initial issues with radiators are sometimes hardly noticeable. In order to prevent other problems from arising in your vehicle, it is crucial to know the symptoms of a bad radiator.

1. Be aware of issues with your car's heating and cooling system

Be aware of issues with your car's heating and cooling system. If your car suddenly begins to blow out excessive heat/cool air or begins to lack in its usual blowing capacity, there could be a problem with the radiator.

2. Note how may times your vehicle overheats

Note how may times your vehicle overheats. Check for coolant system leaks. Avoid putting water in your radiator. Check for cracks in the radiator or bad hoses.

3. Check the thermostat by feeling the upper radiator hose

Check the thermostat by feeling the upper radiator hose right after you start your car. Ensure that the hose gets hot after a while. If the hose doesn't get hot, that means that it is not open and this impacts the fluids that flow through the radiator.

4. Use a infrared thermometer to scan the surface of the radiator

Use a infrared thermometer to scan the surface of the radiator for cold spots. If you find any spots, that could mean that the radiator is clogged and full of debris. A clogged radiator is one of the most common causes of bad radiators.

5. Look at the functioning of the radiator cap

Look at the functioning of the radiator cap. A malfunctioning radiator cap, which builds too much pressure or does not receive coolant, may denote a problem with the radiator.

Video showing how to tell if your radiator is bad:

Comments on this video:

• New radiator, upper and lower coolant hoses and clamps also replaced the thermostat... No overheating, oil and coolant mixing but I still keep getting a drop in the coolant level even after topping off! No visible leaks or pooling under the car either lol I'm stumped
• My engine bay gets extremely hot and my fan runs very fast when my ac is on. But I have no lights... my engine temp needle stays at constant normal temp when it warms up. I am not sure what is going on. I'm scared to drive my car but it runs fine. Could I have a bad radiator? It's a 2010 mercedes e class so I thought the thousands of sensors would at least tell me if my engine is overheating or the radiator is not working but I am at a loss here.