What is the Difference Between Finned & Unfinned Radiators?

Finned and unfinned radiators work to cool the engine of an automobile in two ways --- circulating coolant through the engine and dispersing heat away from the vehicle. The difference is witnessed in efficiency.

Finned Radiators

• A finned radiator features corrugated metal "fins" on the exterior of the radiator, designed to disperse additional heat through an increased surface area. Most newer vehicles have finned radiators.

Unfinned Radiators

• Unfinned radiators have a smooth surface and rely primarily on the circulation of coolant to keep the heat of the engine under control. Some unfinned radiators have ribbed surfaces.

Maintenance

• Finned radiators are more difficult to maintain than unfinned radiators because the thin corrugated metal fins can be damaged easily from road debris and salt from the sea or the road in winter climates with snow where salt is used to melt the snow and ice.

Performance

• Finned radiators are typically more efficient than unfinned radiators, dispersing more heat due to the increased surface area.