Nov 25, 2022


The radiator helps to control your engine temperature by exchanging the heat from the engine for cooler air. A radiator is very hardy, but time and wear can damage even this tough component. If your radiator isn’t working as efficiently as it should, your Honda dealer can perform a radiator repair. These are a few signs that your radiator could be failing.

Signs You Need a Radiator Repair at Your Honda Dealer

Damaged Thermostat

Your engine depends on coolant to remove the heat to prevent overheating. The coolant is only pumped through your engine when the temperature reaches a pre-determined point, which is usually between 185 F and 210 F. Once this temperature is reached, coolant is released into your engine and pumped through it at high speed.

The thermostat is the tiny component responsible for releasing the coolant. It’s a very simple device, but essential in preventing overheating. If the thermostat fails and doesn’t release coolant, your engine temperature will soar. If you notice your engine getting hotter, you could have a damaged thermostat. Our technicians will check, and we can replace a damaged thermostat very quickly.

Damaged Radiator

A modern radiator is constructed from aluminum and plastic, making it both light and strong. The radiator operates under conditions of high temperature and high pressure, and it can also be damaged by sand, stones, or other hard material drawn in through the radiator grille. Any damage to the radiator will compromise the cooling system and increase the engine temperature.

Sand grains, for example, can blow through the grille at high speed and dent or bend the cooling tubes. If enough of these tubes are blocked, your engine will overheat. The plastic sections of the radiator can also be damaged by impact. The metal sections of a radiator are susceptible to rust if the radiator isn’t serviced regularly. We’ll assess the damage and repair or replace your radiator to fix the problem.

Failed Water Pump

The water pump is responsible for moving the coolant through your engine at high speed. Without a working pump, your engine can’t move the coolant, and your engine will rapidly overheat. This makes the water pump critical for controlling your engine temperature.

The most common reason for a pump failure is age, but it can also be affected by damaged wiring or a blown fuse. If the pump fails, your engine temperature gauge will go up, and the check engine light will illuminate. Neither of these points directly to the pump, but they are both signs of engine trouble. We’ll check the pump and repair or replace it.

If you experience any problem with your radiator, call us right away at Tony Honda Kona

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