Nov 25, 2021

The radiator in your car serves to cool your engine, allowing your car to operate efficiently. As your car moves, the mechanical parts generate heat, and this heat must be reduced. If the radiator is not working correctly, the temperature in the engine will rapidly rise and this can lead to engine damage. To protect you and your car against serious and costly repairs, as your BMW dealer we have listed some signs you may need a radiator repair.

4 Signs Your BMW Needs a Radiator Repair, From Your BMW Dealer

Sludge in the Coolant

Coolant is circulated through the cooling system to absorb heat from the engine and then transfer to the outside air via the radiator. When a radiator starts to fail, it deposits contaminants into the cooling system. These contaminants, which are black or rusty colored, build up in the coolant and thicken it. This sludgy mixture is then circulated through the engine, and it prevents the cooling system from working properly.

An easy test for contamination is to check the color of the coolant. Coolant fluid should be pink, yellow, or green so contaminants are easy to spot. If the coolant is contaminated, your radiator will need to be replaced to prevent more serious damage to the engine.

A Coolant Leak

A pool of sweet-smelling liquid under your car is a sure sign of a coolant leak. There are several causes of a coolant leak, including a worn radiator, a damaged radiator hose, or even a problem with the engine block. Topping up the coolant is a very short-term solution, as the leak will continue. If you have a coolant leak, call us right away. Our technicians will find and repair the source of the leak, which will prevent any further damage to your car.

Damaged Water Pump

Coolant is circulated through your engine by the water pump. If the water pump wears out or is damaged, coolant will no longer circulate and your engine temperature will rise. A whining sound from your engine, combined with a high engine temperature can mean that the pump has been damaged. The whining sound is caused by a loosened pulley or a faulty ball bearing in the pump.

Steam Coming From Under the Hood

This is an obvious and a very serious sign that your engine is seriously overheating. If this happens when you are driving, pull over as soon as possible and call us right away. Driving with an overheating engine can cause major and costly damage to the engine, for example, burnt pistons or a blown head gasket.

You are justifiably proud of your BMW, and we want you to be able to enjoy it for many years to come. If you suspect that your radiator may be damaged, contact our service department right away at Tom Bush BMW. Our trained technicians and specialized technology can diagnose and repair any possible issue. We have the care, expertise, and commitment that you and your BMW deserve.