A radiator is a cooling system component that helps dissipate heat from the engine. It releases the engine heat from the coolant to the outer environment. When the radiator fails, the whole car stops functioning due to the extreme heat.
Common Radiator Malfunctions and Their Cause
- Leaks: This is the most common malfunction in car radiators. Due to internal or external corrosion and physical damage, the core, seams, or connecting hoses of the radiator form a leak. This leads to leakage of coolant and disruption of the cooling process.
- Clogs and Blockages: The radiator is made up of a series of thin tubes and fins. Due to irregular maintenance practices and incorrect or low-quality fill-ups, the thin tubes of the radiator become clogged with rust, sediment, and other contaminants. As a result, the flow of coolant stops, preventing the engine from cooling.
- Corrosion and Physical Damage: Corrosion occurs over time, gradually eating away at the internal metal of the radiator, often stemming from improper maintenance. Physical damage can be caused by a minor accident or impact, debris from the road, or even a minor mishandling during maintenance.
Repair or Replacement: What is the Best Option for Green Bay Drivers
Once the problem is identified, you consult an auto service shop for the repair of the damaged radiator. For residents of Green Bay, Huron Automotive provides the best car service for repair and maintenance issues like these. Then you find yourself in a conundrum, whether to repair the module or replace it entirely. Thus, you have to have some understanding of radiator repair in your car, so that you can make an informed decision considering all the factors. Here is what our technicians at Huron Automotive explain about addressing radiator malfunction;
Repair of the Radiator
The repair of specific components of the radiator is most effective and quick. Issues such as small leaks in the core, minor leaks in the connectors, bent cooling fins, and minor clogs are addressed by sealing the leaks, straightening the fins, and cleaning the path. Repair is the best Option when the problem in the radiator is highly localized and the remaining system is robust. Although cost-effective, a repair is only as good as the condition of the rest of the module.
Radiator Replacement
Replacement, on the other hand, is costlier than repair. However, it also acts as an investment that has long-term advantages in performance and reliability. Widespread corrosion, multiple leaks, large cracks, cracked plastic ends, internal blockages, and end-of-life service require the replacement of the radiator in your car. The bottom line is replacement is the better Option when the damage is structural, systemic, extensive, or when the module is at the end of its lifespan. The cost justifies the performance and reliability that is ensured for years to come.
So, what is the best Option?
The above arguments conclude that neither the repair nor the replacement is an absolute better choice when it comes to addressing the radiator malfunction. Both are suitable choices, and the best Option depends on the type and extent of damage.
In the process of determining the best decision for your car’s radiator repair, our consulting technician plays a crucial role. They should inform you of the type of damage, its severity, typical repair practices, the recommended service suitable for your vehicle, other factors affecting repairs, and, most importantly, a transparent quotation of the service. In the Green Bay region, we are proud to provide high-quality, precise, transparent, and cost-effective auto service at both of our Huron Automotive facilities.
Radiator Repair or Replacement at Huron Automotive in Green Bay
Huron Automotive is the premier and trustworthy auto service shop for 
the repair and maintenance of all makes and models of vehicles in the Green Bay region of Wisconsin. We have a state-of-the-art facility, factory-grade repair tools, and advanced scanners that cater to all repair and maintenance needs of modern automobiles. We employ highly skilled technicians who possess the latest factory training and ASE certification, providing you not only precise and quality repairs but also transparent quoting for issues like radiator malfunctions.
We also use quality parts and brand-approved fluids to maintain our work standards. In the Green Bay area, we have been operating since 2015 and have expanded to two facilities: one at 1001 S. Huron Road and another at 2173 Velp Avenue. We also offer our services to residents of nearby areas, including Allouez, Ashwaubenon, Bellevue, De Pere, Denmark, Luxemburg, Hobart, Howard, and Suamico.