Keeping your Audi’s radiator functioning and well-maintained is part of being a responsible Audi owner. Radiators are heat exchangers used to cool internal combustion engines. Your Audi’s radiator works in concert with other cooling system components to regulate the engine’s temperature so it can function as designed by the engineers.
The engine temperature needs to be regulated to allow for an optimal operation. The thermostat ensures this by circulating coolant through the engine. The radiator receives heated fluid and cools it down utilizing blow-by air. It allows the heat from the coolant to exchange with the cooler outside air. The coolant, which has lowered in temperature, then recirculates through the engine, performing this cycle every moment your engine is running to keep the parts cooled.
The Importance of a Radiator
A functional radiator ensures the effective removal of the engine heat through its vent to allow for an optimal operating temperature. A failing or defective radiator hinders the engine’s cooling cycle and could cause the total breakdown of your engine if left unattended. Discussed below are the main reasons your radiator must be kept in good shape:
- Prevents overheating: The major function of your radiator is to prevent your engine from overheating. The coolant absorbs the engine heat and brings it to the radiator to cool it down. In the absence of a radiator to expel the heat from your coolant, your engine is at risk of overheating. If your engine runs hot for any long length of time, it can seize up or even cause an engine fire, ruining your Audi.
- Prevents coolant leaks: Your cooling system consists of several components, including hoses, valves, your radiator, the thermostat, and the coolant, which flows through the system to help absorb and dissipate your engine heat. A radiator that has holes in it will allow coolant to leak, exposing your engine to unimaginable heat. It is possible to notice a leak under the car where you parked if you train yourself to glance at the ground under your car when you pull away. You may notice a colorful puddle of coolant, a rusty-colored spot, or discoloration where your radiator is located at the front of your car.
- Prevents engine breakdown: A failed coolant impacts the effectiveness of the cooling system. This will cause your engine to overheat and break down. An overheating engine will eventually seize up entirely due to the harsh operating conditions. You may also experience a car fire. It is important to never park an overheating car in a garage, because if it starts a fire, it can burn up the property as well as the car.
Symptoms of a Failing Radiator
Diagnosing a failing radiator is pretty straightforward, since there are some easy-to-spot telltale signs. Discussed below are symptoms of a defective or failing radiator:
- Low coolant levels: A failed radiator may allow coolant to seep away from your cooling system. You will notice that your coolant levels drop faster and you need to top up the coolant in your radiator. You may also see the “low coolant” warning on your dashboard. These are all indicators of a leak somewhere in the cooling system, and If you look closely, you may see it if it is an external leak.
- Coolant Leaks: A coolant leak is an indication that something is wrong with your cooling system. Coolant is purposely brightly colored, such as green, yellow, orange, or red. It also is usually scented with a sweet smell to easily identify it. Most of the time, a leak is found directly under your engine after parking for a while. Contact our experts for proper inspection and repairs whenever you notice a coolant leak.
- Overheating: A failed radiator won’t allow your cooling system to complete its cycle. The trapped engine heat in the system mixes with the fresh heat generated by the combustion Consequently, the heightened temperature causes the engine to overheat. You will often notice steam coming from under the hood, increased temperature levels on the dashboard, and reduced engine performance.
Visit Peak Auto Today
Keeping your radiator in great shape is crucial to your engine’s overall health and performance. Whenever you experience or suspect that your radiator is faulty, visit our experts at Peak Auto! Our technicians are certified Audi mechanics with years of experience working on European vehicles, including Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Mercedes, MINI, Range Rover, Volvo, and Volkswagen. We are located in Apex, NC, and extend our services to Cary, Fuquay Varina, Holly Springs, and Raleigh. Please call or visit our shop to schedule your next service appointment.