Top 6 Symptoms of a Bad Oil Cooler
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Oil coolers are an integral part of any vehicle's engine. They are responsible for keeping the engine cool and running smoothly. Unfortunately, when an oil cooler fails, it can cause various issues, ranging from decreased performance to major engine failure.
It is essential to recognize the symptoms of a bad oil cooler so that it can be repaired before any damage can occur.
Some common symptoms of a bad oil cooler include a decrease in engine performance, an increase in engine temperature, and visible leakage from the oil cooler.
A decrease in engine performance can be caused by a lack of oil reaching the engine, a common symptom of a malfunctioning oil cooler.
In this article, we will discuss the various signs of a bad oil cooler!
Table of Contents
What is an Oil Cooler?
An oil cooler is a device used to keep the temperature of the oil that circulates in an engine within a safe range.
It is usually placed between the oil filter and the engine and is connected to the engine's cooling system.
The oil cooler keeps the oil temperature in the engine at a constant level, and it does this by exchanging heat with the engine's cooling system. This allows the oil to cool down quickly, ensuring the engine runs smoothly.
Symptoms of a Bad Oil Cooler
There are several symptoms of a bad oil cooler. They include the following:
1. Decrease in Engine Performance
A decrease in engine performance is one of the most common symptoms of a bad oil cooler.
This is caused by a lack of oil reaching the engine, resulting from the malfunctioning oil cooler not circulating oil properly.
This causes the engine to run at lower power levels and decrease performance, resulting in sluggish acceleration, reduced top speed, and a decrease in fuel efficiency.
2. Increase in Engine Temperature
An increase in engine temperature is another common symptom of a bad oil cooler. This is due to the oil not being cooled properly, resulting in the engine overheating.
Various issues, such as a clogged oil filter, a malfunctioning water pump, or a faulty thermostat, can cause this.
If the engine overheats, it can cause serious damage to the engine and should be addressed immediately.
3. Visible Leakage from the Oil Cooler
Visible leakage from the oil cooler is another indication of a bad oil cooler. Various issues, such as a loose seal or a broken pipe, can cause this leakage.
If there is visible leakage, it is important to address it immediately, as it can cause further damage to the engine if left unchecked.
4. Increased Oil Consumption
Increased oil consumption is another symptom of a bad oil cooler. This is caused by the engine being unable to circulate the oil properly, resulting in the engine burning through oil much faster.
This can cause further damage to the engine if left unchecked, as the engine will run without the necessary lubrication.
5. Reduced Fuel Economy
Reduced fuel economy is also a symptom of a bad oil cooler. This is caused by the engine having to work harder to keep the oil temperature within a safe range, resulting in it using more fuel to do so.
If the oil cooler is not working properly, the engine will be forced to use more fuel to maintain the necessary temperature, decreasing fuel efficiency.
6. Increased Engine Noise
Finally, increased engine noise is another symptom of a bad oil cooler. This is caused by the engine having to work harder to keep the oil temperature in the safe range, resulting in it making more noise than usual.
This indicates that the oil cooler is failing and should be addressed immediately.
What are the Common Causes of a Bad Oil Cooler?
The following are the common causes of a bad oil cooler:
1. Clogged Oil Filters
Clogged oil filters can prevent the oil from circulating properly, leading to a decrease in engine performance and an increase in engine temperature.
This is because the oil can't flow freely through the filter, causing it to build up and not reach the engine.
This is likely to make the engine run at lower power levels, decrease performance, and overheat the engine.
2. Malfunctioning Water Pumps
Malfunctioning water pumps often make the engine overheat, as the oil is not being cooled properly.
This is because the water pump is supposed to circulate the coolant through the engine, and if it is not in good shape, the coolant will not be able to cool the oil properly. This can make the engine overheat and should be addressed immediately.
Faulty thermostats can prevent the oil from reaching the necessary temperature, resulting in the engine running too hot or too cold.
This is because the thermostat regulates the temperature of the oil, and if it is not working properly, the oil will not be able to reach the correct temperature.
This often causes the engine to run too hot or cold and should be addressed immediately.
3. Leaks in the Oil Cooler
Finally, leaks in the oil cooler can cause visible leakage from the oil cooler and should be addressed immediately.
This is because a leak in the oil cooler can cause the oil to leak out, resulting in a decrease in the oil level and a decrease in engine performance.
How to Test a Bad Oil Cooler?
Testing a bad oil cooler can be done in a few different ways. The most common way is to check the engine's temperature with an infrared thermometer.
If the temperature is higher than normal, it could indicate a bad oil cooler.
1. Check the Engine's Temperature with an Infrared Thermometer
Checking the engine's temperature with an infrared thermometer is the most common way to test a bad oil cooler.
If the temperature is higher than normal, it could indicate a bad oil cooler. This is because the oil cooler is responsible for keeping the oil temperature in the engine at a constant level.
If it is not working properly, the engine's temperature will be higher than normal.
2. Check the Oil Level to Make Sure it is Not Too Low
Checking the oil level is also important to ensure it is not too low. Low oil levels can indicate a leak in the oil cooler, as the oil is not circulating properly.
If the oil level is often low, it is important to check the oil cooler for any signs of leakage.
3. Inspect the Oil Cooler for Any Signs of Leakage or Damage
Inspecting the oil cooler for any signs of leakage or damage is also important. If there is visible leakage or damage, it is likely that the oil cooler is bad and needs to be replaced.
4. Perform a Pressure Test on the Oil Cooler to Check for Any Leaks or Blockages
Finally, a mechanic can perform a pressure test on the oil cooler to check for leaks or blockages.
This is done by pressuring the oil cooler and checking for leaks or blockages. If leaks or blockages occur, the oil cooler is likely bad and might need replacement.
How to Fix a Bad Oil Cooler
An oil cooler is an important component of an internal combustion engine, as it helps regulate the engine oil's temperature.
If the oil cooler fails, it can cause the engine oil to overheat and cause damage to the engine. If your oil cooler is failing, there are a few steps you can take to fix it.
1. Check the fittings
The first step is to check the fittings on the oil cooler for any signs of leakage or corrosion. If any fittings are leaking, you will need to replace them.
2. Check the hoses
If the oil cooler is not faulty, the next step is to check the hoses. Make sure the hoses are not clogged or blocked and replace them if needed.
3. Clean the oil cooler
If the hoses are in good condition, the next step is to clean the oil cooler. You can do this using a soft brush or cloth and warm soapy water. This will remove any dirt or debris causing the oil cooler not to work properly.
4. Replace the oil cooler
If the oil cooler still needs to be fixed, you may need to replace it. Make sure to purchase a new oil cooler of the same size and type as the old one.
Following these steps should help you fix a bad oil cooler. If the oil cooler continues to fail, you should take the vehicle to a mechanic for detailed diagnosis and repair.
Oil Cooler Replacement Cost
The cost of replacing an oil cooler will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the type of oil cooler you need.
Generally, oil cooler replacements range in cost from $200 to $350. It is important to note that labor costs are not included in this estimate and may add to the overall cost of the repair.
Additionally, it is recommended to always use a certified mechanic for oil cooler repairs and replacements.
Can you Drive with a Bad Oil Cooler?
No, you should not drive with a bad oil cooler. The oil cooler helps to regulate the temperature of the engine oil, and if it is not functioning correctly, the engine oil will overheat.
This can lead to serious damage to the engine and should be addressed immediately. If you suspect your oil cooler is failing, you should take your vehicle to a mechanic for detailed diagnosis and repair.
