Radiator Service Video

The radiator is the heat exchanger that keeps your engine from cooking itself. Hot coolant flows through a network of thin tubes and fins inside the radiator. As air passes over the fins, it removes heat from the coolant before it circulates back through the engine block.

This video walks through where the radiator sits behind the front grille and how the tanks, core, and cap work together under pressure. When the engine runs, the water pump pushes coolant through the radiator and thermostat, keeping temperatures in a narrow operating window.

A failing radiator usually leaves evidence before the temperature gauge climbs. Green, orange, or pink coolant pooling under the front of your car may indicate a cracked radiator tank or seam. If the coolant level slowly drops without a visible puddle, a pinhole leak in the radiator core could be the cause.

Cape Girardeau winters bring hard freeze-thaw cycles, and diluted or overdue coolant loses its freeze protection and expands inside the radiator, splitting seams and cap seals. An inspection pressure-tests the system, checks the cap, and examines the core, tanks, and hose connections for weeping or corrosion.

When testing confirms the radiator itself is the issue, our radiator repair and replacement service covers the full scope of work. Drivers from Jackson and Scott City bring their vehicles to Parks Automotive for cooling system work.

If you notice coolant under your car or your temperature gauge starts rising, call (573) 335-2599. You can also visit Parks Automotive in Cape Girardeau to have your radiator inspected before a problem leaves you stranded.