1997 Ford Explorer Radiator Repair & Service

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Ford Explorer Radiator Services

Are rising engine temperatures causing rising stress levels for you? Cool it! Schedule your 1997 Ford Explorer radiator service or repair today.

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When to Service Your 1997 Ford Explorer Cooling System

If you’re not sure what the purpose of a radiator is, it’s hard to tell when to have your Ford Explorer radiator serviced. Nonetheless, you need to know the signs of radiator malfunction. 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.

Staying on top of routine radiator maintenance for your 1997 Ford Explorer is a huge factor in the longevity of your engine. Ford recommends that you replace coolant (also called antifreeze) at certain intervals, but you can also take note of any signs your radiator is going bad. Your radiator could be close to causing an engine breakdown if you see coolant leaks under your car, high engine temperatures, or a dashboard light that indicates low coolant. When you experience one or more of these issues, head to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care for a Courtesy Check.

Ford Explorer Coolant Fluid Exchange

What does radiator repair include? When you come to Firestone Complete Auto Care, we’ll begin your radiator repair with an in-depth inspection of the cooling system in your Ford Explorer. We then do a machine-powered radiator exchange, replenish flushed chemicals, sealants, and lubricants, and then pressure check for leaks.

Radiator problems often go hand in hand with water pump problems. Some services for your 1997 Ford Explorer engine can wait, but the water pump is one part that you can't put off repairing or replacing. This pump ensures that coolant is always flowing through the radiator, hoses, and engine. 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 you stay ahead of any potential engine problems. When it comes to radiator service and repair, we’re here to give your 1997 Ford Explorer the top-notch service it needs. After all, we know it’s not just a car. It’s your car.

Questions About Ford Explorer Radiators

With regular maintenance and service as needed, you could extend the life of your 1997 Ford Explorer radiator. Get answers to common radiator questions, and head to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care as soon as you suspect a radiator issue.

  • What does the coolant light on my Ford dashboard mean? 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.
  • Can an antifreeze leak wait? Notice a leaking fluid that's green, bright orange, or pink and feels sticky? It might be antifreeze. Antifreeze is toxic but has a sweet smell and taste that's attractive to many cats and dogs. Do your pets a favor and have an antifreeze leak investigated ASAP. Then hose down the driveway or garage floor!
  • Can Ford Explorer radiators be cleaned? To keep your Ford Explorer radiator running well, it’s wise to get it cleaned out a few times a year.
  • Why is my Explorer overheating? One of the main reasons your Ford Explorer 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 Explorer radiator sounds like it's rumbling or boiling! What's up? There could be air pockets in your Explorer’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 Explorer radiator? Yes. Rust in the radiator of your Ford Explorer can impair its cooling efficiency, cause leaks, and even result in complete failure of the radiator. Over time, rust can eat away at the radiator's cooling passages, forming tiny holes or cracks that can affect its operation. To help prevent rust from causing damage, you should stay on top of radiator maintenance.