Can You Drive a Car with a Blown Radiator?

Technically you can, but you never should. A blown radiator is quite dangerous to drive with as your car engine may overheat. Because such a faulty radiator is not able to produce the proper amount of coolant to cool the engine.

Can You Drive a Car with a Blown Radiator?

The radiator in your car is for cooling the internal heat of the engine and balancing the temperature. Coolant passes through the engine block. Then, the heat in the engine gets absorbed.

After that, it goes into the radiator. The hot coolant passes through the radiator, cools it down, and dissolves the heat.

What happens if you drive with a blown radiator?

As the radiator removes the heat from the engine of your car, you should not drive with a faulty radiator because your car engine will face overheating problems. This can lead to many malfunctioning of your car like the pistols snapping, serious engine damage, and eventually, your car can also break down.

All of the consequences are highly dangerous since they may also cause you to lose control and have an accident.  Due to overheating, your car engine will be at risk of catching fire.

What causes a busted radiator?

There are several reasons for a radiator to bust, crack or blow. 

• It can be clogged up with dirt and debris. Rust can build up in the radiator, which may lead to blockage of the radiator.
• Over time, internal junk and other contaminants can get stuck in the radiator. These will be a hindrance to the flow of coolant between the radiator and your car engine. 
• A faulty Thermostat can cause overheating or coolant pressure that may lead to a blown radiator. 
• Excessive heat especially in summer gives pressure on the Radiator. 
• If you do not maintain the radiator fluid properly, it can blow the radiator.
• If you do not maintain the radiator fluid properly in wintertime, it can freeze and expand inside the tank, which will cause a busted radiator.

Can you temporarily fix a cracked radiator?

If you suddenly notice a crack on your radiator in the middle of your journey, you can temporarily fix it. However, experts do not recommend you to do so. You would need a two-part epoxy adhesive or something like that you can use to fix the crack for the time being. 

First, clean the cracked place and rub the place with good sandpaper. Then, mix the two-part epoxy glue and put a good amount of it into the crack. Secure the area with tape if you can and take it to the service center as soon as you can.

How do I protect my radiator?

You need to protect your radiator, or else it may get busted in the middle of your journey if you do not maintain it properly. Here are some ways to protect your radiator,

• The first thing you should do to protect your radiator is to keep them clean. You have to keep it free from dirt and debris.
• You have to protect your car engine and radiator from road bugs. The bugs can cause the malfunction of your radiator.
• You have to service your car regularly and get your radiator checked if it is rusty or not.
• Replace your car radiator if it becomes old.
• Keep your radiator always refilled.
• Try to avoid overheating the engine of your car.
• Change the coolant in the radiator regularly.
• Keep the coolant fresh.
• Lastly, always check your car radiator before you drive.

How to drive with a leaking radiator?

You should not drive with a leaking radiator. Because the leaking coolant is toxic to humans and animals. However, you can drive with a leaking drive depending on how much is leaking.

If you notice leaking while driving, you can fill the radiator completely with water. Then, you have to drive slower than normal in order to reach the nearest mechanic or service center.

Can you drive a car without a radiator cap?

Yes, You can drive a car without a radiator cap. However, most of your coolant will spill and fall on the road. That is why; you should not do it, as it is dangerous and wasteful.

Nevertheless, if you want to do so, you have to fill your radiator fully with coolant and water after driving every 10 miles. As it will spill on the way, so you have to refill it every time it gets empty. Therefore, never lose your radiator cap.

FAQ

1: How much does it cost to fix a busted radiator?

If you go to a mechanic, the cost will be around $90 depending on your car’s make and model. Replacing a car radiator, however, can set you back over $300-$900. Labor costs involve a mechanic checking for leaks, removing the radiator, a whole system flush, and the installation of a new radiator.

2: Is it worth fixing a radiator?

The radiator hoses, core, and housing can develop small holes and broken sections if they are not maintained properly. Because the cooling system is vital to the health of your automobile, it is advisable to repair it yourself or get an auto mechanic to repair it for you as soon as possible if you notice any problems.

Conclusion

A perfect radiator works to cool down the engine and it helps the engine to function properly. You may drive with a blown radiator but it will only cause trouble for your car.

Your car may get overheated and cause mishaps. So replace and service your car regularly through experts.