A vehicle's engine gives it the power it needs through the burning of fuel and the creation of energy from its many moving parts. This power and movement can generate a tremendous amount of heat throughout the engine. It is essential to vent this heat from the engine during operation to avoid overheating, which can result in severe damage.
A radiator helps to eliminate excess heat from the engine. It is part of the engine's cooling system, which also includes a liquid coolant, hoses to circulate the coolant, a fan, and a thermostat that monitors the coolant temperature. The coolant travels through the hoses from the radiator, through the engine to absorb the excess engine heat, and back to the radiator.
Once it returns to the radiator, thin metal fins release the heat from the coolant to the outside air as the hot liquid passes through it. Cool air flows into the radiator through the car's grille to aid in this process, and when the vehicle isn't moving, such as when you're idling in traffic, the system's fan will blow air to help reduce the heated coolant's temperature and blow the hot air out of the car.
After the coolant passes through the radiator, it recirculates through the engine. This heat exchange cycle is continuous to maintain an optimal operating temperature and prevent the engine from overheating.
