Top 4 Signs of a Broken Car Radiator

Posted on August 4, 2021 by gcsjunk

The radiator is one of the most important auto parts in a vehicle because it makes sure the engine doesn’t overheat. Without a properly functioning car radiator, you can expect your engine to overheat quickly, which can result in serious internal engine damages and hefty auto shop repair bills. Not sure if your car radiator is doing okay or not?

Continue reading to learn the top four signs of a broken or failing car radiator, and what to do if the cost to replace your car radiator exceeds the total market value of your vehicle.

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How a Car Radiator Works

A car radiator is one of the primary components of the vehicles cooling system. You’ve heard of coolant before; right? Also known as radiator fluid or anti-freeze, coolant is a vital automotive fluid that is designed to absorb the heat that is generated by the vehicle’s running motor. After coolant absorbs enough engine heat, it travels through the car radiator where it is cooled and then circulated back into the engine to start the process over again.

How to Spot the Signs of a Failing Radiator

There are many signs and symptoms that can suggest a problem with a car’s radiator, but for top the list the majority of the time. These include coolant leaks, engine overheating, radiator sludge, and local levels. If you have noticed any of these 4 signs, you can safely assume the radiator is failing or going bad.

➀ LOW COOLANT LEVELS

If you notice that your coolant levels are inconsistent, or you are refilling your coolant more often than normal, it could be a sign that your radiator is having problems. Typically, your dashboard will have a low coolant line that will eliminate when equivalent levels are too low. More often, this is a sign of a coolant leak.

➁ COOLANT LEAKS

If you’ve noticed coolant accumulating on the floor below your vehicle, you can safely assume you’ve got a radiator leak coolant on your hands. This is a common radiator breakdown problem that requires immediate automotive repair attention. Typically, this is a result of a crack in the radiator.

➂ RADIATOR SLUDGE

The presence of radiator sludge is another tell-tale sign of a bad radiator. Radiator sludge can be detected when checking your coolant levels. Radiator fluid is typically red or green in color, but if there is an excessive level of radiator sludge present, your coolant will take on a rusty or brown color and appear sicker than normal.

➃ OVERHEATING ENGINE

If your car engine is constantly overheating, the radiator might be the first place you want to look. After all, your radiator is a vital component within the automotive cooling system; so, if your engine is getting too hot, it is very likely that your radiator is not doing its job well enough.

Older Broken Radiators and Total Loss Vehicles

If the cost to repair your car’s radiator exceeds the total market value of your car, your car is totaled. In this case, sell your junk car to a local Kentucky cash for ca r s company for instant cash on the spot! If you simply need to replace your radiator, sell your old one to the same Louisville junk car buyer for an instant cash profit!

Are you looking for a trusted Louisville junk car buyer? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell your junk car in Louisville, Kentucky for cash on the spot! We provide free junk car removal!

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Simple Tricks to Improve Gas Mileage in Any Car or Truck

Posted on June 4, 2021 by gcsjunk

When it comes to personal finances, there is always room for improvement. After all, who doesn’t want to save a few extra bucks here and there? Whether it is one dollar or twenty dollars, savings is savings, which means it’s valuable. A great way to cut back on your weekly and monthly costs is fuel. I know what you’re thinking, and you are right; fuel is a fixed cost in your life, and you depend on it to get from point A to point B. However, if you adopt some more efficient habits, you can increase your gas mileage and lower your fuel costs, therefore saving money!

Continue reading for some simple tricks to improve gas mileage and any car truck, and what to do if your car is simply junked and won’t drive another mile.

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How to Increase Gas Mileage and Lower Fuel Costs

The price of fuel is expensive and only getting higher with each year. This is a known fact that has haunted the everyday driver for years. When it comes to saving money, saving on gas is usually not an option; but there are ways to make those dollars last you longer than before.

Get Rid of the Heavy Stuff

One of the quickest ways to improve your gas mileage is to remove heavy or accumulated items in your trunk. Many people are accustomed to storing heavy loads of equipment, golf clubs, clothes, books, and other belongings in the trunk of their vehicles. The extra weight in the trunk causes the vehicle’s engine to work harder, which burns more fuel. Removing these items can help improve the amount of fuel your car burns on a daily basis.

Do Not Be Wasteful

There are other ways to save on gas too. For example, avoiding long idle times are great ways to reduce the amount of gas consumption. Do not let your car’s engine run stationary for long periods of time. This uses a lot of fuel without even driving the car. If you park to eat lunch, listen to music, or talk on the phone, turn your ignition off to save on gas. Also, try and carpool as much as possible, or combine driving trips to save on miles driven on a weekly basis.

Drive With Discipline

Another trick to increasing fuel mileage is simply implementing better driving habits. Drivers that road rage, speed, or swerve every chance they get can be causing damage to their vehicles, as well as, burning up fuel. Aggressive driving can rapidly burn fuel in a car or truck. Simply slowing down and driving in a safe and consistent manner will reduce the amount of fuel you use and protect your car from damages.

Is your car totally junked and couldn’t possibly drive one more mile even if you put fuel inside of it? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell your junk car in Louisville, Kentucky as soon as today. We will buy your car or truck no matter what condition it is, and pay you cash on the spot!

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Signs That Suggest You Need to Replace Your Catalytic Converter

Posted on December 15, 2020 by gcsjunk

Your vehicle is an important asset. After all, if it weren’t, you probably wouldn’t have one. For this reason, it is important to keep your eyes peeled for any signs that suggest it needs some mechanical attention. Most parts and systems can be easily protected and replaced with little cost. But when it comes to the more complex and important systems in your vehicle, like the catalytic converter and engine, it is better to catch their needs early on, before the cost to repair them gets out of control.

Engines will show obvious signs, including indicator lamp warnings on the dashboard. But when it comes to catalytic converters, the signs are more subtle. Fortunately, with a little knowledge, you will know exactly what to look out for, and what to do when it happens.

Continue reading to learn the top signs that you need to replace your catalytic converter, and how to sell your old one for cash on the spot.

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What Does a Catalytic Converter Do?

Before you can learn to spot the signs of catalytic converter mechanical failure, it helps to learn how this vital auto part works in the first place. By understanding the basic operation of a catalytic converter, you will be naturally more in tune with any signs that might pop up.

A catalytic converter is an advanced exhaust emission control device used to reduce carbon monoxide (CO), volatile organic compounds (VOC’s), nitrogen oxides, and similar pollutants produced by automotive engines and fuel. Simply put, they are the automotive component responsible for transforming the harmful emissions into less harmful ones, before exiting the vehicle’s exhaust system.

Fun fact: Catalytic converters operate by using metal catalysts, generally consisting of one or more valuable metals, like platinum, rhodium, palladium, and even gold. This precious metal content is what makes catalytic converters so expensive, and so valuable.

Signs of a Failing Catalytic Converter:

⚙ Your Engine is Sluggish or Problematic – If your engine seems like it is not working like it used to, it could be due to a mechanical failure within the catalytic converter. In fact, decreased engine performance is often the very first sign to show up when a catalytic converter is having problems. Usually, the Check Engine Light illuminates on the dash. A blockage or crack within the exhaust system can cause the engine to have poor fuel efficiency, slow acceleration, or power issues.

⚙ Your Check Engine Light is On. As mentioned, one of the very first signs you will likely notice when your catalytic converter is malfunctioning is seeing the Check Engine Light, also known as a Malfunctioning Indicator Lamp (MIL). This light is programmed to come on when anything within your vehicle’s systems is affecting the engine’s performance. A common catalytic converter malfunction that causes the Check Engine Light to come on is when it is not catalyzing the exhaust gases correctly.

⚙ Your Car is Rattling When it Runs. Hearing rattling noises while the engine is running, whether moving or at an idle, is a common indication that something is going wrong with the exhaust system. More times than not, it is due to the catalytic converter corroding or coming apart.

What to Do With an Old Catalytic Converter in Louisville, Kentucky

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 if you have a junk car or broken catalytic converter to sell in Louisville and its surrounding areas. Not only do we accept all vehicles, regardless of age, make, model, and condition, our Louisville Kentucky cash for cars company also payout the highest returns for junk vehicles in Kentucky. Just accept our offer and we will come pick up your junk car! Contact us today to request a free estimate!

A DIY Guide for Car Radiator Flushing

Posted on September 25, 2020 by gcsjunk

Once you turn the key, start your vehicle’s ignition, and then begin to drive, your internal combustion engine starts producing a substantial amount of heat. In order to remove this heat and prevent your engine from overheating, a functional radiator is needed. A car radiator uses thermal heat exchange to eliminate high temperatures and heat to keep a vehicle’s engine in working condition. This means that larger vehicles require larger radiators to facilitate the same effect.

For radiators to be effective and stay cool, they must be cleaned regularly by means of flushing. Solid deposits, residues, and other sediment buildup can cause a cooling system to clog or fail entirely. Flushing a car radiator is one of the most important routine maintenance jobs and must be done to keep vehicles operational over time. Fortunately, it can be done on your own. It’s also quick and inexpensive to do.

Continue reading to learn some tips that can help you when it comes time to flush your car radiator.

Start By Acquiring the Correct Supplies

The first thing to do when it comes to flushing a car radiator is gather up all the necessary supplies and materials. It is never a fun situation to get halfway through your project, only to discover you are missing a key element. Going back to the store could pose a problem; especially if the radiator has already been drained. Ideal provisions for radiator flushing jobs include a funnel, cloth rag, coolant, radiator flush solution, Phillips screwdriver or wrench, separate container for old coolant, and extra rags for accidents and spills. When you have determined that all your supplies are in place, you can begin the process of flushing the radiator.

How to Flush Your Car’s Radiator:

Before you remove the radiator cap, be sure the car engine is COMPLETELY cool; otherwise you run the risk of spilling hot coolant on yourself. And this really burns!

Next, flush the used coolant out of the radiator. Do this by locating the radiator drain plug. It is typically located at the bottom of the radiator. If you have trouble finding it, refer to your owners’ manual or look online for pictures and instructional videos. You can also contact a professional mechanic for over-the-phone assistance.

Once you find the drain plug, place the container for old coolant under the drain and open it up. Let the old coolant flow out for a few minutes; if it seems to be moving slow, check to see if the plug is all the way open.

When the radiator is empty, replace the drain plug and open the radiator cap.

Next, pour the flush cleaning solution inside. Fill the remaining space inside the radiator with room temperature water.

Now you are ready to replace the radiator cap; just be sure it is screwed on tight. It is possible for caps to fall off, which allows coolant to escape from the radiator.

Let the car engine run until it reaches its normal driving temperature. Then turn it off and let it cool completely.

Once the car engine is cool again, you are ready to flush the solution from the radiator and add fresh clean coolant. Use the same emptying process as before.

Use a 50/50 solution of coolant and water to get optimal and safe results. You can find pre-mixed coolants at your local auto store. This is sometimes more convenient.

Is Your Radiator Past the Point of Maintenance of Repair? Did you total your car after attempting to make repairs on your own? If so, just sell it to a local Louisville junk car buyer for instant cash paid on the spot!

The Kentucky Scrap Metal Buyer to Choose

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell a junk car in Louisville, Kentucky. We are your easiest solution to getting rid of junk and bulking up your wallet, all at the same time! Our experienced and knowledgeable junk car buyers purchase all motor vehicles, regardless of age, make, model, or condition. They don’t even have to run or have all their parts! Not only do we accept all vehicles, regardless of age, make, model, and condition, we also payout the highest returns for junk vehicles in Kentucky. Call 502-804-5605 to get your junk car cash, today.

How to Prevent Major Engine Repair or Replacement

Posted on July 17, 2020 by gcsjunk

A car’s engine is the heart of your vehicle. Just like ours, it requires regular care and maintenance to sustain and protect its well-being. If you are a car or truck owner, be sure to learn about car engine maintenance and care to increase your engine’s lifespan and performance value Taking care of a car engine has endless benefits, and can reduce the likeliness of breakdowns and needed repairs. If you are unsure about your car engine’s status of health, you may need to step up your auto care game. If you end up at the repair shop with a hefty engine replacement bill, your car might be deemed a total loss by your insurance company if it is old or already in poor condition.

Continue reading to learn what you need to do to protect your car engine from experiencing major damages and malfunctions, as well as, what you can do with your broken car engine to make up for the cost of engine replacement.

Routine Car Engine Maintenance

There are more than 40 parts in a car engine that require maintenance and care in order to survive. This is why it is important to have your vehicle inspected every year by a professional, because they are trained to routinely inspect these areas and spot vulnerabilities. That way, you don’t have to worry about missing something when it comes to caring for your vehicle’s engine. On the other hand, there are other things you can do as a car owner to maintenance and service your engine.

Changing the car engine oil is one of the biggest factors in engine care. The engine’s oil should be checked every few weeks, especially before long road trips. You can do this on your own, or have a professional check it during routine auto inspections. Keeping a proper supply and level of engine oil in your car is crucial to the vehicle’s performance, as well as, your safety Think of your car engine oil as the vehicle’s vitamins and nutrients; because it needs fresh and clean oil to survive.

Auto Tune Ups

In between the 80,000 and 100,000 mile marker, it is recommended to have your car engine tuned. Auto tune ups involve a series of services that will refresh and restore a vehicle’s engine. These services involve inspecting parts, such as spark plugs, filters, fuel injectors, and more. An auto tune-up is a great way to restore your car engine’s health, and reduce costly car engine repairs and replacements. If your check engine light is on, it is time for an auto tune up. In other cases, certain signs will let you know you need a car tune up. If it seems like the car’s acceleration power is decreasing, or you hear a knocking sound when you drive, it could be time for a tune-up.

Forced to Replace Your Broken Car Engine?

If your car engine takes a turn for the worst, and you have to replace it with a new one, the cost can be quite alarming. In many cases, the cost of a brand new motor is higher than the actual worth of the vehicle. When this happens, a car is considered a total loss. You can either take your insurance payout, or you can sell it to a local Louisville junk car buyer. In fact, if you simply need engine replacement, you can sell them your old car engine, regardless of its condition, and still make instant cash from it.

How to Sell a Junk Car or Car Part in Louisville, Kentucky

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 if you have a junk car or broken car engine to sell in Louisville and its surrounding areas. Not only do we accept all vehicles, regardless of age, make, model, and condition, our Louisville Kentucky cash for cars company also payout the highest returns for junk vehicles in Kentucky. Just accept our offer and we will come pick up your junk car! Contact us today to request a free estimate!

How to Safely Toss Out an Old Car Battery

Posted on June 29, 2020 by gcsjunk

Car batteries are not designed to last forever. So, at some point, you will need to have yours replaced. When that time comes, it is important to have a plan set up for safe battery disposal. Not only are there ordinances that regulate battery disposal, automotive batteries contain several hazardous chemicals and materials, so they cannot simply be thrown away like the rest of your garbage. Instead, you will have to use alternative disposal methods. If your vehicle will soon be needing car battery replacement, be sure you know what to do with your old one!

Continue reading to learn how to safely dispose old car batteries.

Auto Salvage Yards

Automotive batteries contain several metal constituents that can be recycled and repurposed. In fact, most parts of an old car battery can be reprocessed and reused in new car batteries. This is enormously beneficial to our environment and the preservation of our planet’s natural resources. So, one safe and efficient course for car battery disposal would be to recycle them at a local auto salvage or junkyard.

Many junk car buying companies pay cash for scrap metal, so you may be able to help the environment and make a quick buck at the same time! If you cannot locate a Louisville cash for cars company, look to automotive repair shops. Many mechanics accept old car batteries too.

Tips for Handling Old Car Batteries

Because car batteries contain hazardous materials and chemicals, it is critical that you handle old or used ones properly if replacing yours on your own. This includes wearing the appropriate safety gear, such as goggles and work gloves, to protect your eyes and skin from burns and pollution. When you are taking your old battery to a scrap yard, be sure to place it in a container that will ensure it remains in an upright position while in route.

Where to Find a Trusted Auto Salvage Company in Louisville, Kentucky

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell your junk car in Louisville and its surrounding areas. Not only do we accept all vehicles, regardless of age, make, model, and condition, we also payout the highest returns for junk vehicles in Kentucky. Just accept our offer and we will come pick up your junk car! Contact us today to request a free estimate!