Cold weather and car radiator repairs

Cold weather can create all sorts of problems for your car. You may find that the low tire pressure light comes on when the air begins to compress. The battery light may be on because the cold makes it difficult for your car to start. However, a less noticeable consequence of the cold is damage to the radiator. Our local mechanics are ready to provide everything you need to know about car radiator care in cold weather. 

Why is cold weather bad for radiators?

You may be surprised, "Why is cold weather putting my radiator at risk? As temperatures begin to drop, the coolant inside your radiator may begin to partially freeze. While antifreeze won't freeze until it hits -36℉, coolant is actually a mixture of antifreeze and water. Unlike antifreeze, water freezes at 32℉. As such, the fluid in your radiator may begin to partially freeze on cold winter nights. 

Radiator problems and cold weather

So what happens when the fluid in the radiator starts to freeze? This process can cause several adverse side effects, including:

• The metal components of your radiator may begin to shrink.
• The fluid in the radiator may begin to expand.
• Radiator fluid may leak through damaged components 
• Radiator hoses and clamps may be loose or damaged.

In these cases, your vehicle will need professional radiator diagnostic and repair services. This may include hose replacements, radiator replacements, hose tightening services, or coolant services, among others. 

Preventing Radiator Damage in Cold Weather

Luckily, there are several steps you can take to protect your radiator. How to prevent radiator problems in cold weather? Here are three top tips from our mechanics:

• Garage park: The easiest way to prevent the radiator from getting cold is to park in the garage. This will protect your car from frost and make it easier to deal with the harshest temperatures. 
• Car covers: If you can't park in your garage, you might consider investing in car coverage. They will help keep your car warm and insulate the engine from the cold. 
• Radiator flush: Your radiator will be particularly susceptible to the cold if not cared for properly. Dirt and debris in your radiator can affect your coolant's freezing point and make your radiator more susceptible to cold weather issues. Thus, it is important that you follow the manufacturer's recommended radiator flush procedure. 
• Current vehicle maintenance: During routine service visits, such as an oil change, your mechanic should look under the hood to visually inspect your belts and hoses. This will allow you to identify certain problems with the radiator at an early stage and minimize damage. 

Chapel Hill Tire Radiator Repair and Replacement Services

When your car has radiator problems during the winter, the local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire can help. We offer the expert assistance you need to protect your vehicle. Chapel Hill Tire proudly serves a large triangle area with 9 offices in Raleigh, Apex, Chapel Hill, Durham and Carrborough. Our local mechanics offer convenient pickup/delivery services as well as a wide selection of coupons, deals and promotions. We invite you to make an appointment here online or give us a call to get started today!

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