Ask an expert


emmadowd

Hi
My car has gone in for repair and I've been advised it needs the thermostat replaced. They've quoted for this but included in the quote is a Radiator Cap. Just wondering why it would need a new cap?

Thanks

Anon

A radiator cap needs to seal the cooling system as well as release excess internal pressure which occurs due to expansion. The radiator cap can be pressure tested and visually inspected to determine if it needs replacing - mechanic workshops normally have a coolant pressure testing kit for this. I suspect they have quoted for a radiator cap as a precautionary measure however you need to confirm this with the mechanic.

It sounds like your vehicle has cooling system problems which need attention - hopefully it isn't major issues.

emmadowd

The car has been heating up when idling or in slow traffic. Fine on open road. Had thought was the fan not starting up but advised thermostat. Did think that if was thermostat it would always run hot.