What does a car radiator do?

What does a car radiator do?

Don’t get hot under the collar wondering what a car radiator does – read our guide to find out.

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Petrol and diesel cars are fitted with various auxiliary components in addition to the engine itself. Engines are surrounded by an ecosystem of engineering, from power-steering pumps to air-conditioning condensers.

One of the most important subsidiary components of an engine is its cooling system, and a car's radiator plays a crucial role in this.

This guide will talk you through what a radiator does, how it works, how you can tell if you have a problem with your car’s radiator, and how much a new car radiator might cost if you need to replace yours.

What is a car radiator?

Most of us are familiar with household radiators, which radiate heat to warm our rooms. Similarly, a car radiator radiates heat to prevent the engine from overheating by dissipating the wasted heat created when fuel is ignited.

How does a car radiator work?

A car’s engine has a ‘water jacket’ around it consisting of holes and channels that run inside the engine block, separate from the combustion chambers. Coolant—a blend of chemicals and water—is circulated through this water jacket by the engine’s water pump, absorbing heat from the engine as it passes through.

This heated coolant is then pumped through hoses to the radiator at the front of the engine. The radiator comprises a series of tubes connected to ‘fins’—thin metal strips that provide a large surface area for the heat to dissipate from and head into the atmosphere, away from the engine.

The cooling effect is enhanced by air movement across the radiator as the car is driven, with a fan automatically activated to create moving air if there isn't enough, such as when the car is stuck in traffic or parked on a hot day.

When the engine is started cold, a valve known as the thermostat stops the coolant from reaching the radiator, allowing it to circulate around the engine block until the engine reaches the optimal operating temperature.

How to tell if your car radiator is broken

Diagnosing a faulty radiator isn't always straightforward unless you are mechanically trained. However, common signs include engine overheating indicated by a warning light or a high temperature gauge reading, and visible damage such as dents, holes, or creases in the radiator fins.

Another symptom is a coolant leak, visible as dripping or a warning light for low coolant, though pinpointing the leak to the radiator specifically can be challenging.

Safety warning: If you have a coolant leak and must drive the car before repair, top up the coolant to reduce the risk of overheating. Only add coolant when the engine is cold. Opening the radiator or its expansion tank when the engine is hot poses a risk of very hot coolant escaping under pressure, posing a significant injury risk.

Not all dripping indicates a problem: air-conditioning systems often disperse clear condensate water. Investigate any wet patches under your vehicle to determine the source.

How to fix a broken car radiator

Minor radiator leaks may be repairable using a leak-plugging repair liquid, although these products can leave sludge in the cooling system. A professional diagnosis and repair by a qualified technician is preferable.

There is also a popular but unreliable DIY fix involving cracking an egg into the radiator to seal leaks. This should only be considered in extreme circumstances, as it can easily cause further issues.

Generally, professional repairs for broken radiators are economically unviable due to time and cost. Replacement car radiators are relatively inexpensive and a more practical solution.

How to stop a car radiator from breaking

Maintenance is key. While it's impossible to prevent all potential damage, proper care of your car and its cooling system can keep it in good working order.

Follow the car manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and renew coolant at appropriate intervals. Coolant flushes may also be recommended.

Regularly check coolant levels alongside other checks like oil, brake fluid, and power steering fluid levels.

How much is a replacement car radiator?

The cost of replacing a car radiator varies based on factors such as the garage’s hourly labor rate and the price of a replacement radiator for your specific car. Some radiators are easier to access and replace than others.

As an indication, a new radiator can cost around £80 for a mainstream car, with an hour and a half's labor for drainage and replacement. Factoring in system flush and new coolant, a budget of £350 is reasonable.

Do electric cars have radiators?

Electric motors and batteries generate very little heat, eliminating the need for traditional radiators. However, EVs do have thermal management systems for their batteries, which may include small radiators as part of the cooling system. Checking and maintaining EV coolant systems is typically the job of a trained technician.

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Car Radiator: What's The function, How It Works, and How ...

This guide provides further explanation of car radiators to help you understand this crucial car component better.

Cars are integral to our daily activities, requiring proper maintenance to function optimally. Among the many parts needing care is the car radiator.

The radiator is vital in transferring engine heat into the air, with coolant running through channels installed around the engine, absorbing and dissipating heat.

Continuous combustion in a car engine increases its temperature. Thus, a cooling system is essential to prevent overheating. The radiator cools the engine by absorbing heat through coolant and dissipating it into the air.

This article further elaborates on the importance of maintaining your car radiator for optimal performance.

If you experience issues with your car radiator, visiting your preferred repair shop is advisable. Knowing how to care for your radiator ensures its longevity and efficient operation.

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