Radiator caps should be sealed strong and tight before operating. Radiators exert a lot of pressure when the fluid is heated. According to CarsDirect, failing to properly secure a radiator cap with ample physical pressure "can cause the vehicle to overheat" or even leak.
Tighten Strong for Safety
![Never touch a radiator when it is hot.](https://img-aws.ehowcdn.com/360x200p/photos.demandstudios.com/60/37/fotolia_3866623_XS.jpg)
Radiator caps should be sealed strong and tight before operating. Radiators exert a lot of pressure when the fluid is heated. According to CarsDirect, failing to properly secure a radiator cap with ample physical pressure "can cause the vehicle to overheat" or even leak.
Be Sure All Caps Fit
![Radiators exert different amounts of pressure.](https://img-aws.ehowcdn.com/360x200p/photos.demandstudios.com/12/236/fotolia_3093638_XS.jpg)
Radiator caps are designed to withstand different amounts of pressure--be sure yours is appropriate. Correct radiator cap pressure helps to maintain a balance of heat. If old caps are damaged they should be replaced. New radiator caps, states ArrowHeadRadiator, "must have the same pressure rating as the original."
- Radiator caps are designed to withstand different amounts of pressure--be sure yours is appropriate.
Bottom Line
![Replacing a radiator due to a loose cap can be costly.](https://img-aws.ehowcdn.com/360x200p/photos.demandstudios.com/55/244/fotolia_1737983_XS.jpg)
A radiator cap should be tightened with a maximum amount of physical pressure. If a radiator cap is not on strong enough it can cause fluid to leak. In order to avoid danger, be sure caps are pressure-rated specifically for your radiator. Check your owner's manual for details on pressure cap ratings.
- A radiator cap should be tightened with a maximum amount of physical pressure.
- In order to avoid danger, be sure caps are pressure-rated specifically for your radiator.