Overheating Issues? Your Volvo May Need A Radiator Repair

One of the most frustrating experiences that can happen to any Volvo owner is having the engine overheat while driving. If you see that your Volvo’s temperature gauge is rising or steam is coming out from under the hood, then it means that something is wrong with the cooling system. The radiator is part of the cooling system of the Volvo and is very important in regulating the temperature of the engine, and when it breaks down, overheating becomes a major problem.

If an engine is allowed to run hot for a long time, it could cause head gasket damage or even complete engine failure, which will cost a lot of money to fix. So, if your Volvo is overheating, don’t just leave it unattended; call an expert mechanic. But before then, let’s discuss in detail why the radiator of your Volvo could be the reason for overheating and how to resolve the issue before it gets worse.

What Causes a Volvo Radiator to Fail?

The purpose of the radiator is to release heat from the engine coolant so that the engine can maintain the required temperature. However, due to various factors such as wear and tear, leaks and blockages, failure is bound to occur. Below are some of the causes of overheating problems associated with your Volvo’s radiator.

Coolant Leaks: One of the major issues that can cause a car’s radiator to fail is a leak in the coolant. If the radiator is damaged or its seals are worn out, the coolant can leak and this will lead to low levels of fluid and overheating. Check for the puddles of bright-colored coolant under your car— if you find any then there is a possibility that your Volvo radiator is leaking.
Clogged Radiator: If the radiator is left for a long time, dirt, rust and debris may accumulate within the radiator and hinder the free flow of the coolant. A clogged radiator is not able to effectively cool the engine and this results in temperatures rising. If your Volvo has been running hot and you have not seen any leaks, then the problem might be a blockage within the radiator.
Non-functional Radiator Fans: The radiator has electric cooling fans that aid in the removal of heat. If the fan fails, cracks or stops spinning, the radiator will not be able to cool the engine effectively, especially in slow-moving traffic or at a standstill. So, if your Volvo only gets hot when it is stationary or idling, then it could be due to a faulty fan.
Worn-out Radiator Hoses: The radiator hoses convey the coolant between the engine and the radiator. In the long run, these hoses may crack, come loose or even leak, which will reduce the amount of coolant that circulates within the engine and lead to overheating. If your hoses are soft, brittle or if you can see the cracks on them, then it is high time you changed them.

How to Fix a Faulty Radiator

Check Coolant: The coolant reservoir should be checked to make sure that it has enough coolant and that the level is within the recommended range. It is advisable to open the radiator cap only when the engine is cold since doing so when it is hot may result in burns from the steam that is created.
Check for Leakage: Check if there is any sign of leakage in the form of coolant deposits around the radiator or below the car. Ensure hoses have no cracks, swelling or signs of loose connection.
Change the Coolant: If the coolant seems to be brown or thick, then a radiator flush is required to clean the buildup of deposits. It is always important that you use the correct coolant as recommended by the manufacturer for your Volvo.
Check the Radiator Fan: Turn the engine on and observe whether the cooling fan comes on when the car achieves its working temperature. If not, the problem may be with the fan motor or the relay and this will have to be changed.

Get Quality Radiators Repairs Services From Hayes European

If you have an issue with your Volvo overheating or if you think that your car’s radiator is at fault, then the specialists at Hayes European are ready to assist you. We are based in Santa Cruz, CA and we also provide service to Capitola, Aptos and Soquel, CA. Our team is experienced in repairing European cars and can easily identify and solve problems associated with the radiator, leaks in the coolant system, and overheating. Call us now!