The radiator plays an essential role in the operation of your vehicle. and is of the utmost importance for the proper performance of any engine.
This important element is generally located at the front of the vehicle, next to the fan. In this way it receives outside air without interference and can cool the engine.
To achieve this, it uses a tank in which the hot coolant is housed. This passes through some tubes, generally made of copper with fins, which together form a kind of grid through which the air coming from the fan circulates, cooling the liquid that circulates inside the tubes.
The coolant ends up in the lower tank, already cold, to go through the system in the direction of the engine. The best way to check the temperature of the coolant and, indirectly, the engine, is through the temperature gauge on the car’s dashboard.
Without a doubt, the radiator is a very important element and its proper functioning is vital for cars. Therefore, you should always perform maintenance services on the cooling system and avoid corrosion in it.
How to prevent a radiator from corroding?
Radiator corrosion is a very common fault in the cooling system. This can damage a radiator over time and is usually quite visible, but there are certain types of corrosion that are more difficult to predict.
Once it has Corrosion damage has occurred, there is no turning backso it is important to be vigilant to avoid costly repairs.
The good news is that even though corrosion cannot be completely preventedwhen you have the right knowledge, you have a good chance of keeping it at bay.
How to know if it is corrosion?
In general, corrosion can be defined as the chemical reaction between materials, usually metal, and its environment, resulting in deterioration of the metal and its properties.
Physically, this means that your radiator can be punctured with holes, cracks, or brittleness, making it vulnerable.
Metal deterioration obviously produces some adverse effects, most of which will affect performance and functionality. While different types of corrosion can occur in various ways, you will still end up with substantial damage.
Problems can include:
– Reduced corrosion protection
– Reduced performance and cooling efficiency
– Weak and brittle tubes
– Coolant loss/leak
– Accumulation of mud or debris
– Pitting, cracking or general deterioration of the metal
– Mixture of coolant and transmission fluid
– Excessive heating
If you experience any of these symptoms, take your car to a mechanic to discuss the best possible solution for your car.
Find out more about car radiator servicing at Natrad.
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