Radiator Service & Repair for 1987 Dodge Dakota

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Schedule Dodge Dakota Radiator Service

Don’t let the heat of the moment – or of your engine – get to your head. Schedule a radiator repair or service for your 1987 Dodge Dakota today.

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When Does My 1987 Dodge Dakota Radiator Need Service?

It can be tough to know when to have your Dodge Dakota radiator serviced if you don't know what it does, but it's still extremely important. Your radiator is part of the cooling system. It helps regulate engine temperature. If your radiator isn’t functioning like it’s supposed to, the engine can overheat – or worse, break down.

Keeping up with regular radiator maintenance in your 1987 Dodge Dakota is crucial to keep your engine in the best possible shape for years to come. Dodge recommends that you replace coolant (also called antifreeze) at certain intervals, but it’s also wise to keep an eye out for signs of a failing radiator. Your radiator could be close to causing an engine breakdown if you notice a low coolant light or higher-than-normal engine temperatures on your dashboard, or if you spot coolant leaks coming from your car. As soon as you see one of these symptoms, come to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care for a Courtesy Check.

What to Expect from Dodge Dakota Radiator Repair

What’s included in a radiator repair service? If you bring your vehicle to Firestone Complete Auto Care, we start with a comprehensive inspection of your Dodge Dakota’s cooling system. Then, we’ll move on to a machine-powered coolant exchange. Finally, we’ll refill the flushed sealants, lubricants and chemicals, then do a pressure check to catch any possible leaks.

Issues with your radiator often coincide with a malfunctioning water pump. Of all the parts in your 1987 Dodge Dakota engine, the water pump is one that needs to be addressed ASAP once an issue is identified. The role of the water pump is to keep coolant circulating in your engine, radiator, and hoses. If it isn’t functioning properly, your engine won’t be able to stay within its optimal temperature range. Let our technicians examine your radiator pumps and hoses to help make sure everything is in working order. From the heater core to the radiator cap, we’re here to give your 1987 Dodge Dakota the top-notch service it needs. After all, we know it’s not just a car. It’s your car.

Common Dodge Dakota Radiator Questions

With regular maintenance and service as needed, you could extend the life of your 1987 Dodge Dakota radiator. Get answers to common radiator questions, and head to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care as soon as you suspect a radiator issue.

  • Why is the coolant light on my Dodge dashboard on? Pay attention to the temperature gauge and lights on your dashboard. If a low coolant warning light comes on or your dashboard temperature gauge keeps rising, it’s likely that your engine is about to overheat (and could leave you stranded on the road). Wait for the engine to cool down, then have your coolant system checked immediately at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care.
  • Is an antifreeze leak dangerous? It's better to get it fixed sooner than later. Antifreeze is toxic if consumed, but its smell can attract cats and dogs. Keep your whole family safe by repairing antifreeze leaks ASAP and thoroughly hosing down your parking spot to get rid of any lingering residue on the ground.
  • Do Dodge Dakota radiators need to be cleaned? It could be a good idea to have your Dodge Dakota radiator cleaned out a couple of times a year, maybe at the same time as a tire rotation or oil change.
  • My Dakota overheated! What can cause that? One of the main reasons your Dodge Dakota engine might overheat is because you don’t have enough coolant. Other causes include a clogged radiator, a damaged cooling fan, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a faulty water pump.
  • My Dakota radiator sounds like it's rumbling or boiling! What's up? There could be air pockets in your Dakota’s cooling system. You might also have a clogged radiator or faulty radiator cap (this last one is an easy fix!).
  • Is it bad to have rust on my Dakota radiator? Yes. Having rust in your Dodge Dakota radiator can cause leaks, a reduction in cooling efficiency, and even radiator failure. If rust is left untreated, it can corrode the radiator's cooling passages, causing small cracks or holes that can significantly impact the radiator's ability to function. To help prevent rust from becoming a major issue, it's important to properly maintain your radiator system.