OEM Radiators

What does a car radiator do? Put simply, it keeps your engine from running too hot -- running cool enough, in fact, to help prevent an overheat. How car radiators work generally, however, is a little more complicated. The process starts inside your vehicle, with coolant. As your engine runs, it generates heat, and that liquid captures the heat as it flows to and fro between inlets and outlets, through a radiator hose. A radiator cap compresses the coolant as it travels, which helps it take on more heat than it could unpressurized. After it absorbs all it can, the fins on the outside of your radiator expel the heat, and a fan scatters it into the air nearby. The result: your engine keeps working right, and resultantly, it lasts longer. Sometimes, a factory radiator can go bad, though, and when it does, it usually causes all kinds of problems.

What Are the Signs of Radiator Issues?

There are several. For instance, your heating and air conditioning systems can start malfunctioning. Secondly, your engine can overheat and shut down completely. Luckily, spotting radiator problems is easy. Fin damage and mucky coolant usually indicate them. Also, listen for weird noises coming from your engine, and smell for a sweet, syrupy odor. The latter is ethylene glycol, and it suggests a coolant leak. If you think you might be dealing with radiator failure, check your temperature gauge. If your engine's running hot, the needle will tell you. Then, inspect your vehicle thoroughly. If the results indicate you need to replace your radiator, avoid the aftermarket; a genuine OEM radiator will fit your model best. Our auto parts store stocks plenty, and you can order one online with just a click or two. So, check another DIY project off your to-do list. Buy now!