Minnesota Motor Company

Dec 10, 2023
4 Incredible Features Drivers Love on the 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500

The radiator is the component that keeps your Chevy’s engine from overheating when running. It circulates the coolant through the engine and cools the fluid down once it has absorbed heat from the engine. If you notice these signs of trouble, visit your Chevy dealer immediately for radiator repair.

1. High Readings on Your Temperature Gauge

It’s normal for your Chevy to run a little hotter on hot summer days. However, if you notice the car overheating when driving in normal conditions, your radiator may be malfunctioning. A higher-than-normal temperature reading shows the radiator is unable to cool the coolant. Have the radiator checked for blockage or other defects that could hinder its operation.

2. Abnormally Low Coolant Level

Is the coolant level in your vehicle dropping at an alarming rate despite frequent refills? This signals a leak in the system due to a cracked radiator hose, cracked radiator, or loose connection. After parking your Chevy for a while, check underneath it for a pool of red, green, or orange fluid.

If there’s a leak, you should fix it immediately to prevent the Chevy from overheating due to low coolant levels. Your dealer’s certified technicians have the tools and expertise to pinpoint the location of the leak. If your radiator is severely cracked, they may advise you to replace it to optimize cooling under the hood.

3. Damaged Radiator Fins

The delicate fins on a radiator are designed to ensure efficient cooling. They promote airflow through the radiator, allowing it to draw heat from the coolant. Unfortunately, the fins can become bent or broken due to road debris, impact, or age-related wear.

Damaged or clogged fins can’t hinder the cooling process and cause the engine to overheat. Have the dealer repair or replace the fins to ensure proper airflow and prevent engine overheating. You should also clean the fins regularly to clear blockage from leaves and dirt.

4. Discolored or Sludgy Coolant

When checking your radiator, examine the condition of the coolant. Clean coolant should have a bright red, green, or orange color. If the fluid appears discolored, sludgy, or rusty, contaminants are building up inside the radiator due to internal corrosion. A certified technician should flush the radiator and inspect it for corrosion before refilling the coolant.

5. Visible Damage on the Radiator

You should regularly inspect your Chevy’s radiator for external damage. Look for cracks, holes, dents, and corrosion. Don’t ignore these signs, as they could worsen over time and lead to major problems like coolant leaks and overheating. A technician can inspect the radiator and recommend whether to repair or replace it, depending on the extent of damage.

If you notice these signs of radiator issues, contact Minnesota Motor Company to schedule immediate repairs. Our Chevy-certified technicians have the right tools and expertise to fix the radiator and get your vehicle running properly again.