The radiator is an integral component of your car’s cooling system, keeping your engine cool by absorbing heat. If left untreated, a cracked radiator will cause overheating, costly repairs, and even engine damage.
Knowledge about what cracks a radiator will help avoid problems and keep your car running at its best. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common reasons for What causes the radiator to crack and how to avoid them.
Topic Summary
How Long Do Radiators Last?
Radiators last for 8 to 10 years, but that will depend on driving conditions, care and even radiator quality. Flush the coolant every two to three years to check for leaks or corrosion to help prolong a radiator’s life.
Over time, the radiator can be compromised due to heat, corrosion on the hoses, or corrosion due to old or inferior coolant, leading to leaks or cracks in the radiator.
When you drive under extreme heat or in adverse weather conditions, your radiator can get older and must be replaced sooner.
Regular maintenance and a check of coolant level will extend its life. If your radiator starts to show signs of wear (repeated overheating or rust), it’s time to replace it.
What Causes the Radiator To Crack? (Solution)
The radiator can crack for the following reasons:
1. Temperature Fluctuations
Radiators are heated and cooled constantly, stretching and contracting in their metal or plastic parts. These fluctuations in temperature weaken the radiator and, in the long run, will be vulnerable to cracks.
This is a common problem in areas where seasonal temperature variations are extreme, where warm summers and cold winters put extra strain on radiator components.
Solution:
- Check your coolant and adjust the ratio so your engine stays at a stable temperature.
- Warm up your car when it’s cold and drive so fluids get a nice flow going.
2. Low Coolant Levels
By decreasing coolant levels, the radiator and engine must exert more effort to stay at the perfect temperature, further overtaxing materials in the radiator.
A vehicle driving without enough coolant will overheat, even bursting the radiator with heat and pressure build-up.
Solution:
- Be sure to check coolant levels regularly and top off when needed. Checking your AC at least once a month is recommended.
- Look for hose or connection leaks, which might lead to coolant loss and overheating.
3. Corrosion and Rust
Corrosion happens naturally over time and is exacerbated by inferior or frequent coolant changes. As the radiator material rusts, it becomes frailer and susceptible to cracks and leaks.
Dirty or rusty radiators might cause small punctures, which can then widen into larger cracks over time.
Solution:
- Pump your radiator every two or three years per your manufacturer’s instructions.
- Ensure you use only premium coolant, and do not mix different types of coolant as this can cause chemical reactions that can induce corrosion.
4. Physical Damage From Road Debris
Radiators tend to be close to the car’s front end, which means rocks, gravel, and other road debris easily harm them.
Minor blows weaken radiator components, creating tiny cracks that eventually develop over time, especially when not addressed immediately.
Solution:
- Check your radiator for body damage if you drive off paved or gravel paths.
- Get a radiator guard for protection against debris, particularly if you like to go off-road often.
5. Old Age and Wear
Radiators, like any auto part, will have a lifespan. The average radiator is 8 to 10 years old, depending on use and care.
As they age, construction material becomes porous, joints deteriorate, and the entire system becomes more susceptible to damage and leaks.
Solution:
- Schedule your radiator replacement every ten years or when your automaker advises.
- Be consistent with maintenance by inspecting radiators and hoses for wear or leaks.
6. Faulty or Worn-Out Radiator Cap
The radiator cap is essential to maintaining pressure in the cooling system. If the cap has cracked or slid, pressure can unbalance, overheat, or overload the radiator, causing cracks.
Solution:
- Regularly check for a loose or leaking radiator cap and replace it if necessary.
- You want to ensure the cap is securely placed when gauging the coolant levels because unfastened caps can create pressure problems.
Is It Easy To Fix a Cracked Radiator?
Replacing a popped radiator is complicated and depends on the crack’s severity and location. The small surface cracks could be sprayed with epoxy or a radiator sealant, and this is a short term fix.
However, these repairs can be short lived and usually only useful if the crack is on a plastic component of the radiator. Radiator replacement will be the most durable and efficient option when you see bigger or larger cracks.
You do need mechanical know-how when replacing the radiator. You must drain the coolant, unplug the hoses, and install parts with care.
Unless you’re an expert in engine cooling systems or have the right tools, be sure to call a mechanic to ensure the repair is done properly to avoid wrecking the engine and for the radiator to run properly.
Is It Better To Repair or Replace a Radiator?
Depending on the degree of damage and the age of the radiator, you can choose between replacing or fixing a radiator.
Light level cracks or leaks on plastic parts could be replaced, for example, with sealants or epoxy, although these tend to be short lived and not ideal for reliability.
Replacement should be chosen for radiators with deep cracks, recurring leaks, or corrosion that cause engine overheating.
A fresh radiator will often provide security and allow your engine to reestablish the highest cooling efficiency for an extended period.
Also, if the radiator is approaching the end of its normal lifespan of 8 to 10 years, replace it so you don’t keep paying to have it repaired all the time and break down when you need it.
Replacement is typically a cheaper option for more permanent results in the long run.
FAQs on What Causes the Radiator To Crack
What Are the Signs of a Cracked Radiator?
Less likely symptoms include coolant leaking underneath the vehicle, overheating, low coolant, and steam coming from the hood. With coolant that leaks, you can even smell a nice, sweet thing.
Can I Drive with a Cracked Radiator?
It’s unsafe to drive with a cracked radiator because the radiator can overheat and damage the engine. If you feel like there is a crack, pull over and have it checked or fixed as soon as possible.
What Causes a Radiator To Crack?
These most commonly result from temperature, lack of coolant, corrosion, road grit, or wear from the aging process. A cracked radiator cap can also develop from pressure problems caused by a poor radiator cap.
How Much Does It Cost To Repair or Replace a Cracked Radiator?
The repairs may vary and typically are between $150 and $500. The replacement is usually more than that, around $300 to $1,000, depending on the model and labor.
How Can I Prevent My Radiator from Cracking?
The important thing is to keep up with it. Coolant level: drain the radiator every two years, avoid body harm, and change the radiator cap if necessary. Taking these precautions will prevent cracking and will keep your system functioning properly.
Conclusion
A cracked radiator can be a great pain, but you can avoid it with basic knowledge about common causes. Checking coolant often, lubricating the system, and taking preventative measures can prevent cracks to a great extent.
Address issues like low coolant, leaks, or rust as soon as possible to maintain the life of your radiator and car. Follow these guidelines, and you will save on repair bills and have a reliable car for years.