What Does a Radiator Do?
The radiator keeps your engine from overheating. A Cranbourne West specialist explains how it works.
What it is & what it does
The radiator is a heat exchanger at the front of the car. Hot coolant from the engine flows through it, and airflow (from driving and the cooling fan) carries the heat away before the coolant returns to the engine.
It works with the water pump, thermostat and fan as the cooling system.
Signs of trouble & how we help
A failing radiator leaks coolant (often from the plastic end-tanks as they age), or clogs internally, causing overheating. Signs include coolant loss, overheating, or coolant residue at the front.
We pressure-test the cooling system to confirm the radiator (not a hose or pump), and replace it with the correct coolant and a proper bleed.
Questions about your car? Just ask.
Understanding what’s under the bonnet makes servicing decisions easier — and we’re always happy to explain what your car needs and why, in plain English.
Book a service or a check with a Cranbourne West specialist online in 60 seconds, or call 03 8782 0711.
What Does a Radiator Do? — FAQ
It carries engine heat away — hot coolant flows through it and airflow cools it before it returns to the engine.
Coolant leaks (often from the end-tanks), overheating, or coolant residue at the front.
The plastic end-tanks become brittle with age and heat — common on older cars.
We pressure-test the system to confirm the radiator before replacing it.
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