Warning Signs of a Failing Radiator with Transmission Cooler:
- Engine overheating
- Coolant leaks (look for green or orange fluid)
- Low coolant level
- Transmission fluid mixing with coolant (milky or foamy appearance)
- Transmission overheating or shifting problems
- Rust or corrosion on the radiator
- Cracked or damaged radiator fins
How to Test if This Part is the Problem:
- Check Coolant Level: Make sure your coolant level is correct. Low coolant can cause overheating.
- Pressure Test: A mechanic can perform a pressure test on the cooling system to check for leaks.
- Visual Inspection: Carefully inspect the radiator for leaks, cracks, or damage. Look for signs of corrosion.
- Transmission Fluid Check: Check the transmission fluid for a milky or foamy appearance, which indicates coolant contamination.
- Temperature Monitoring: Use a scan tool to monitor engine and transmission temperatures. Overheating suggests a radiator issue.
Common Failure Causes:
- Age and wear
- Corrosion from coolant
- Physical damage from road debris
- Clogging from debris or scale buildup
- Internal leaks between the coolant and transmission fluid sections
- Overheating events