The winter weather can play havoc with any vehicle, from windscreen damage and water ingress, to radiator issues. The cold weather, frost, and icy roads can all put strain on your vehicle’s systems and lead to issues. The car radiator is just one example. This plays an important role in regulating the temperature of your car’s engine, and preventing it from overheating or freezing. Ensuring this works efficiently during winter is crucial to keeping your car running smoothly. But what are the important factors for keeping your car radiator working in winter? And what steps should you take to avoid an engine issue?
Important factors for keeping your car radiator working in winter
To keep your car’s radiator working in the winter there are a lot of factors you will need to take into account. These include:
- Checking the coolant level- Regularly inspecting the coolant level in your radiator can be a good way to maintain your car radiator. This is because a low level of coolant can cause your engine to overheat, even in winter. Most modern cars have a coolant reservoir marked with minimum and maximum levels, making it easy to check. If the coolant level is low, you should top it up with the appropriate mixture of antifreeze and water. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual to ensure you’re using the correct type of antifreeze.
- Ensure the correct antifreeze mixture- In the UK winter, it’s essential to use the right antifreeze-to-water ratio in your radiator. Typically, a 50:50 mix is sufficient, but extreme temperatures may require a stronger concentration. Antifreeze not only prevents freezing but also raises the boiling point of the coolant, protecting your engine in both cold and hot conditions. As a result, using an incorrect ratio can lead to freezing, which can crack the radiator or damage internal components.
- Flush the radiator periodically- Over time, dirt, rust, and debris can build up inside the radiator, reducing its efficiency. Flushing the radiator removes these contaminants and ensures that the radiator flows smoothly. As such, it is recommended to flush the system every two to three years or as specified by your car manufacturer. This will involve draining the old coolant, cleaning the system with a flushing agent, and refilling it with fresh coolant. While this process is best carried out before the winter months, to ensure your system is clean and effective, it’s not too late to start now.
- Inspect for leaks- Leaking coolant is a common issue that can compromise your radiator’s performance. You should consider checking under the car for puddles or wet spots that might indicate a leak, as well as inspecting the radiator, hoses, and clamps for signs of wear or damage. Catching and repairing leaks early can save you from costly repairs down the line.
- Warm up the engine gradually- When starting your car on cold mornings, you should try to avoid revving the engine immediately. This is because allowing the car to idle for a minute or two helps the coolant circulate and prevents sudden temperature changes that could stress the radiator and other components.
- Protect the radiator from extreme cold- If temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, consider parking your car in a garage or using a car cover to provide additional insulation. This can reduce the risk of coolant freezing and prolong the life of your radiator
Schedule professional maintenance
Routine maintenance by a professional team like ours here at MRS Heat Transfer is essential for identifying potential issues with your radiator and cooling system.We can pressure test the system, check for leaks, and ensure the coolant mixture is correct. Winter is a good time to schedule such a check-up to ensure your car is prepared for the cold months ahead. Why not get in touch today to find out more?