OEM Ford Radiators

What Does a Radiator Do?

The job of a car radiator is simple. It helps prevent engine overheats. How car radiators work, however, is a bit more complex. Luckily, though, it's pretty logical.

The process starts with antifreeze. As your engine puts out heat, the coolant moves back and forth through radiator hoses -- inlet hoses and outlet hoses, specifically -- trapping that heat. A radiator cap pressurizes the coolant as it moves.

When the antifreeze has captured all the heat it can, a set of fins on your radiator releases it, and a fan helps scatter it. The result: your engine works properly, and because of that, it lasts longer. Radiators don't last forever, though: sometimes, they can go bad, and when that happens, HVAC malfunctions, engine overheats, and engine failure can result. Luckily, there are symptoms of it, which you can look for.

What are the Signs of Radiator Problems?

• Unusual noises coming from your engine
• Radiator fin damage
• Gooey antifreeze
• A sweet, syrupy ethylene glycol aroma (usually indicating a leak)

Radiator failure, however, you'll see indicated by your vehicle's temperature gauge. Take a look at its needle or digital display; one or the other will tell you whether your engine's running too hot. Then, do a full inspection to get the final word on the subject.

If its results call for a replacement, put in another genuine OEM radiator. It'll fit your make and model best. Our auto parts counter stocks a wide selection, and you can order from it online in just a couple clicks. So, check another job off your maintenance list. Buy now!