Coolant System

Yes, a damaged radiator can lead to overheating, which in turn can cause engine damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown gaskets. Therefore, it is important to have your radiator inspected and repaired by a professional if you suspect it is cracked or leaking.

Overheating can be caused by various factors, including low coolant levels, a malfunctioning thermostat, a damaged radiator, cooling system leaks, or a faulty water pump. It is best to have an expert technician diagnose the root of the issue in order to prevent severe damage or safety risks while driving.

Regular cooling system maintenance, such as coolant flushes and inspections, can help identify potential radiator issues early and prevent major problems.

Driving with old coolant can lead to engine overheating, coolant leaks, and potential engine damage.

Topping off your coolant is a temporary solution and should not be considered a replacement for a proper coolant flush. While topping off coolant temporarily may help maintain proper levels, it's still necessary to receive coolant flushes to rid contaminants, maintain coolant quality, prevent corrosion, increase component longevity and more.

The best thing you can do is to kill the A/C, crank the heat (to pull heat away from the engine), and discontinue driving. Find a safe place to pull over and turn the vehicle off. This will help prevent damage to the engine. We advise against immediately trying to check under the hood as the coolant and engine may be dangerously hot and the fluid in the radiator can cause severe burns. The best thing to do is let your car cool down and have your car towed to your trusted auto repair shop if possible!