1986 Subaru XT Radiator Service

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Subaru XT Radiator Services

Are rising engine temperatures causing rising stress levels for you? Cool it! Schedule your 1986 Subaru XT radiator service or repair today.

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When to Service Your 1986 Subaru XT Cooling System

If you’re not sure what the purpose of a radiator is, it’s hard to tell when to have your Subaru XT radiator serviced. Nonetheless, it’s vital to know what to look for. As part of your car’s cooling system, your radiator helps keep engine temperature regulated. When the radiator isn't working properly, your engine can overheat and potentially break down.

Regular, proactive service on the radiator in your 1986 Subaru XT is crucial to keep your engine in the best possible shape for years to come. Subaru 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 notice leaking coolant, overheating, or an illuminated low coolant dashboard light. Visit your local Firestone Complete Auto Care for a Courtesy Check at the first sign of one of these issues.

Subaru XT Coolant Fluid Exchange

What’s included in a radiator repair service? At Firestone Complete Auto Care, we start by performing a thorough inspection of your Subaru XT cooling system. We’ll do a machine-powered coolant exchange on the system, and then we’ll top off or replace the fluids that were removed (like chemicals, lubricants, and sealants). Lastly, we’ll perform a pressure check to look for leaks.

Radiator problems often go hand in hand with water pump problems. Of all the parts in your 1986 Subaru XT engine, the water pump is one that needs to be addressed ASAP once an issue is identified. This vital part keeps coolant moving through the engine, hoses, and radiator. If it’s not working well (or at all), your engine can easily overheat. Our trained technicians can inspect your car’s radiator hoses and pumps to help make sure everything is in working order. From the heater core to the radiator cap, we’re here to give your 1986 Subaru XT the top-notch service it needs. After all, we know it’s not just a car. It’s your car.

Common Subaru XT Radiator Questions

Wondering how to make your 1986 Subaru XT radiator last as long as possible? Read on for answers to common questions, and visit your local Firestone Complete Auto Care when your engine shows any signs of a faulty radiator.

  • What does an illuminated coolant temperature light mean for my Subaru? If the coolant light illuminates on your dashboard, your engine could be overheating. Pull over to a safe area and wait for the engine to cool down. Then, head to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care for a coolant system check.
  • Is an antifreeze leak dangerous? Don’t ignore puddles on your driveway or garage floor. If you see a green, bright orange, or pink fluid puddling under your car (it might be sticky, too), it could be antifreeze that’s leaking out of the engine. Antifreeze has a sweet, attractive smell to cats and dogs (and it’s highly toxic to them), so look out for your pets! Repair any leaks as soon as possible, then carefully wash away any remaining fluid that’s left behind on the driveway or garage floor.
  • When should my Subaru XT radiator be cleaned? It could be a good idea to have your Subaru XT radiator cleaned out a couple of times a year, maybe at the same time as a tire rotation or oil change.
  • What is causing my XT to overheat? If your Subaru XT engine overheats, it could be because of a clogged radiator, a damaged thermostat, a faulty cooling fan, a malfunctioning water pump, or low coolant levels.
  • What is making my XT radiator sound like it’s boiling or rumbling? Your XT’s cooling system could contain air pockets or your radiator might be clogged. Another possibility is a faulty radiator cap, which is an easy fix!
  • Should I be concerned about rust in my XT radiator? Yes. If you have rust in your Subaru XT radiator, it could cause leaks, negatively impact cooling efficiency, and eventually lead to radiator failure. Left unaddressed, radiator rust can erode the cooling passages, creating cracks or small holes. Properly maintaining your radiator system can help stop it from rusting.