If your car’s radiator fan isn’t working, you could be in for a world of trouble. The radiator is a key part of your vehicle’s cooling system, which removes the excess heat produced by the combustion process in your engine. If the radiator fails and isn’t repaired right away, your engine could overheat, leading to expensive and disastrous consequences.
Symptoms and causes of a failing radiator
How do you know if your radiator is on the fritz? Here are a few telltale signs:
- Your temperature gauge is reading very high or the warning light has come on
- The radiator fan stays off even when you blast the AC
- The radiator fan never shuts off and stays on constantly
- You notice a coolant leak, either from the radiator itself or the connecting hoses
- Your engine is overheating, with steam coming from under the hood
A radiator can fail for several reasons, including:
- A blown fuse or bad relay in the radiator fan circuit
- Low coolant levels allowing air to circulate and reducing cooling efficiency
- Issues with the radiator fan motor, clutch, or belt
- Damaged or corroded radiator body causing leaks
- Blockage in the radiator core or hoses from sediment buildup
Radiator repair process
Fixing a busted radiator can range from very simple to extremely complex. It may be as easy as replacing a blown fuse or topping up the coolant. More involved repairs include:
- Replacing damaged coolant hoses
- Welding or soldering the radiator core to fix leaks
- Flushing the radiator and cooling system to remove blockages
- Replacing the entire radiator if damage is severe
Unless you have experience with automotive electrical systems and are comfortable working with very hot coolant, it’s best to leave radiator repairs to a professional mechanic. Trying to drive with a failing radiator risks catastrophic engine damage.
Radiator repair costs in New Zealand
How much will it set you back to get your radiator roadworthy again? The cost depends on the extent of the damage, but here are some rough estimates for parts and labour in NZ:
- Radiator flush: $150-$250
- Coolant hose replacement: $100-$200 per hose
- Radiator core repair: $350-$500
- Complete radiator replacement: $600-$1000+
Get your radiator repaired at My Auto Shop
When your radiator goes on the blink, bring your car to the experts at My Auto Shop. Our mobile mechanics will come to you to diagnose and repair any cooling system issues. We use only high-quality parts and coolant to get you back on the road safely.
Don’t ignore the warning signs of a failing radiator. Overheating can quickly lead to a blown head gasket or warped engine block. Trust My Auto Shop for all your car repair needs. With upfront pricing, top-notch service, and unbeatable convenience, we’ll keep your engine running cool. Book your radiator repair today!