Nissan vehicles have a very reliable radiator and engine cooling system. But even the most durable of cars can eventually run into radiator problems, especially without proper maintenance. If your radiator begins to malfunction, your coolant will stop doing its job and your engine will start to overheat. You might sometimes be able to fix radiator issues yourself, but you’ll usually need to visit your local Nissan dealer for professional radiator repair.
Signs of Radiator Trouble
If your radiator is failing, you’re likely to notice signs of your engine overheating. The engine temperature gauge on your dashboard will begin to steadily rise, even under ordinary driving conditions. In addition, your hood will become hot to touch, you’ll hear pinging or knocking sounds from the engine, and you might even see smoke or steam coming from under the hood.
Keep an Eye on Your Coolant
Other indicators of radiator problems become apparent in your coolant fluid. If your ordinarily green or blue coolant has turned a rusty brown or oily color, then you most likely have a build-up of sludge inside your radiator, which is contaminating the coolant.
If you notice coolant pooling under your vehicle or your coolant level is persistently and inexplicably falling, then you probably have a leak. Most coolant leaks originate somewhere in the radiator or its hoses.
Fixing Your Own Radiator
If you’re handy with tools and know your way around a car engine, then you might be able to repair your own radiator. If you identify the source of a leak, you may be able to solder the hole to fix it. And if you find a patch of new rust, you should be able to clean it away with a proper cleaning product, as long as the rust hasn’t yet begun to cause structural damage.
Changing Your Radiator
If your radiator is so damaged that it’s easier to replace than repair, then it’s probably best to have a trusted technician carry out the task. Again, if you’re experienced and confident enough with under-the-hood work, you can try to replace it yourself, provided you can find a radiator of just the right size and shape.
Taking It to Your Local Nissan Dealer
Given how crucial your radiator is to the health of your engine, it’s usually worth taking any radiator problems to a professional at your local dealership. They’ll likely be the first to identify radiator problems anyway when they check your coolant during your regular car inspections.
To thoroughly examine a radiator, a technician must inspect and pressure test the whole cooling system. They’ll examine and test your thermostat, fan, radiator cap, hoses, connections, and every other component. They’ll then fix any problems they find with the right tools, parts, and know-how.
For prompt radiator repair by experienced professionals, pay a visit to Ed Martin Nissan. We’re a trusted local dealership that provides a one-stop shop to the region’s Nissan drivers with consistently outstanding value and customer service.
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