Dealing with common radiator problems

During the past week my Golf 4 has been overheating and when I took it to my mechanic he sadly informed me that I literally needed to change most pipes in the engine because they are cracking. So I am in pain right now, it’s no fun parting with money especially when it’s hard to come by.
I shall therefore focus on problems associated with radiators. This is mainly directed to those with older cars, which are not on any service plan.
If your vehicle is over five years old, then you might have noticed how your vehicle’s engine seems to be running just slightly hotter than before.
This usually indicates damage on your radiator that may require quick repair or replacing.
After owning your vehicle for a period beyond six years — whether it’s a coupe, sedan, car, truck or SUV, the likelihood of radiator problems greatly increases.
It doesn’t matter if your odometer shows that your vehicle has done 500km or 50 000 km — the fact remains that like all your other vehicle parts, your radiator is not immune to slow damage and corrosion caused by age.
So what exactly are the common radiator problems that you’ll have to deal with? The following are some of the most prominent reasons behind radiator failure.
l Rusting: If the rust settles inside your radiator, then this problem can’t be remedied with simple repair tips.
Your radiator is greatly affected by road debris, humidity and other catalysts that could cause chemical reactions.
When this happens, expect rust to slowly eat away at your radiator, effectively lessening this component’s capabilities before it breaks down completely.
l Constricted Coolant Flow: Another possible reason behind your radiator troubles is the build-up of mineral deposits in the small and narrow tubing located in the unit’s core.
When the coolant flow becomes too restricted, your radiator may no longer function the way it’s supposed to, greatly reducing your engine’s capabilities.
l Epoxy Failure: Your OEM radiator may be comprised of high quality and hard wearing materials, but after four or five years of use, the epoxy that joins most of your radiator’s seams may begin to quickly wear out.
Check your radiator once in a while to determine if it’s in need of repair. Don’t just continue driving without doing a thorough check.
In a number of cases radiator failure doesn’t start with an actual radiator problem. The following are some “outside factors” that could have brought your current radiator issues.
l Malfunctioning Thermostat: The inaccuracy of your current thermostat can eventually lead to radiator failure requiring complete unit replacement.
l Damaged Water Pump: Just like your malfunctioning thermostat, a damaged water pump can prevent proper water-coolant circulation, which will eventually lead to radiator disaster.
Like your thermostat, it’s important that you replace your water pump sometime between 50 000km-100 000km.
l Brittle Hoses: Brittle hoses are prone to drying and cracking, which could conversely lead to a broken radiator.
Check these parts once in a while to see if they are still in good working condition. This is the problem that I have to contend with.
l Blown Seams: Blown seams and overall wear in these vehicle parts usually take place after years of using the same radiator.
l Leaky Fittings and Tube to Header Leaks: Leakage cannot only destroy your radiator, it could also affect your engine. Check your vehicle regularly to see if there are some parts that require repair due to leakage.
l Faulty Solders: The solder is the part of your radiator, which attaches your numerous cooling fins to the core tubes.
When this part comes loose, radiator problems occur. The cooling fins are naturally delicate and thin, making them prone to damage caused by different catalysts.
l Electrical Problems brought by Ignition Wires: If you have faulty ignition wires, then electrochemical reaction can occur inside your radiator tubes, effectively stopping water-coolant flow.
Your ignition wires naturally give out electromagnetic energy. With faulty ignition wires, stray currents can easily attack your radiator tubes, destroying the unit slowly but surely.
While you can’t completely prevent radiator damage from settling in, you can slow down its corrosion through instant repair. If the damage is beyond repair, then I highly suggest quick replacement.
So there goes something for nothing. I have managed to keep things under control by fixing the problems fast.
Till next week remember to keep your radiator in check . . . Ciao.
God bless you.
l Fact Jeke is an auto enthusiast with over a decade experience. She has written for several regional publications, attended many auto trade shows around the globe. You can contact her on email: [email protected] or via Facebook: Torque with Fact Jeke.