Slow Car Engine Cranking: Why The Radiator Might Be The Problem

8 November 2015
 Categories: , Blog

Share

Is your car engine slower to crank up than usual? It is possible that the problem is happening because the radiator is in need of attention, as it is an important part of how the engine operates. Find out in this article what you should know about a car radiator in connection to the engine and what a repair might cost.

How Can the Radiator in a Car Cause an Engine Problem?

Before you knowing how the radiator can affect your car engine, you must understand how it functions. Basically, the radiator is in place to prevent your car from overheating by distributing water and antifreeze. The two fluids are mixed together inside of the radiator after each of them is poured inside of the car. The mixture creates a coolant that is then distributed through a hose that leads inside of a storage tank. There is also a hose attached to the storage tank that sends the coolant into the engine to keep it cool while you are driving.

The problem with your engine cranking up slowly is possible due to your car being low on coolant. If the car has been without a sufficient amount of coolant for a long time, rust may be inside of the radiator. A radiator with rust in it can contaminate the coolant and cause debris to get into the engine, which can cause the engine to crank slowly. Even with a sufficient amount of coolant, rust can still pose a problem. If you don't get the problem inspected and repaired as soon as possible, your engine will start getting hot and pose a fire hazard.

A mechanic will have to flush out the radiator to get rid of old coolant and contaminants like rust. The contaminants are flushed out by sending a cleaning agent and water into the radiator. Your car will be turned on to help the cleaning agent and water circulate to the fullest extent before being drained out. After the flushing procedure is complete, fresh water and antifreeze will be put inside of your car.

Is Getting a Car Radiator Flushed Expensive?

There are a few things that will determine how much you are charged to get the radiator flushed. For instance, make and model of your car can affect the overall price. Expect to pay a mechanic up to $200. Talk to a mechanic as soon as you can to get your radiator the necessary maintenance for the engine to function properly. For more information, check out websites like http://www.soundsideauto.com.