Your car is more than just a car. It’s a crucial means of transportation and a haven on the road. As such, you need to take care of it regularly to prevent problems should you encounter them on the road.
One of the most essential systems in any car is the cooling system. It encompasses many parts of your car and handles generating and distributing heat away from any internal systems that might overheat. Even more importantly, it handles maintaining the working condition of other systems in your car.
If the cooling system breaks down, several other issues will break down as a result. The good news is that many of the signs it is breaking down can be identified long before any severe damage happens. Here’s what you need to look out for.
1. Rising Temperature Gauge
If you’re noticing that the temperature gauge in your vehicle is rising as you drive, this is a potential sign of the vehicle’s cooling system problems. While some cars tend to run hotter than others, a temperature gauge that climbs quickly is a sign that something is wrong. It is important to have your vehicle checked out as soon as possible to ensure your vehicle remains in good working condition.
2. Low Coolant Levels
Coolant levels in your vehicle are extremely important to check, as a lack of coolant can cause a whole host of issues. If the radiator or hoses feel hot to the touch, it likely means that there is not enough coolant flowing through them. Regularly checking your coolant levels can help prevent a small issue from becoming a much bigger one.
3. Coolant Leak
If you notice liquid on the driveway, there may be water leaking from the radiator or hoses, which indicates a broken hose or a faulty seal. If your engine is running hotter than normal, or if the heater and air conditioner are not working the way they should, a coolant leak could be the cause. If you see any of these signs, it is important to take your vehicle to a trusted professional auto repair to get it serviced.
4. Overheating
An overheating engine shows smoke or steam coming from the hood, and the car temperature gauge is in the red. Another is excessive vibrations or noises that state that the engine is running at a much higher temperature than normal. If your vehicle starts to overheat, it’s important to shut off the engine immediately and contact a mechanic to inspect the cooling system.
5. Unusual Residue and Discoloration Around the Radiator
Unusual residue odor and discoloration around the radiator are obvious signs of a vehicle issue. A burnt and smoky odor will be present when liquid leaks occur due to damage in the radiator. You may also see discoloration around the radiator such as seepage, corrosion, and rust.
Be Mindful of These Signs in Your Cooling System
It’s important to be mindful of the signs that may show your vehicle’s cooling system needs repair. A cooling system failure can cause more damage over time, so it’s best to consult an auto-care professional as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Contact an auto care professional today for advice and a repair if you experience any of these signs.
Find this article helpful. Check out the rest of our site for more helpful auto-related tips.