A small coolant leak may not seem urgent at first. Maybe you notice a sweet smell after driving, a few drops under the vehicle, or the temperature gauge sitting a little higher than usual. The vehicle may still run fine, but cooling system issues can become serious quickly if they are ignored. In this month’s blog post, we examine what to look for with coolant issues, and how to keep your cooling system properly maintained to mitigate breakdowns and costly repairs.
Why Coolant Is So Important
Coolant helps control engine temperature and protects parts inside the cooling system. It moves through the radiator, hoses, water pump, heater core, and engine passages. When the coolant level drops, the engine may not be able to stay at the right temperature. Too much heat can damage gaskets, sensors, hoses, and in severe cases, the engine itself.
Warning Signs of Cooling System Issues
- A sweet smell near the front of the vehicle
- Steam or a hot smell after driving
- Coolant spots on the driveway or garage floor
- The temperature gauge rising higher than normal
- The heater blowing cool air when it should be warm
- A low coolant warning light
Some leaks only show up when the engine is hot and pressure builds in the system. That means you may not always see a puddle. A hose, radiator seam, thermostat housing, water pump, or coolant reservoir can leak slowly before the problem becomes obvious.
Cooling System Preventative Maintenance
Preventative maintenance includes checking coolant level and condition, inspecting hoses for cracks or swelling, testing the radiator cap, looking for dried coolant residue, and making sure the cooling fans are working properly. Coolant does not last forever. Over time, it can become dirty or lose some of its protective ability. Following the service schedule for coolant replacement can help protect the system from corrosion and overheating.
Do Not Wait For Overheating
An overheating vehicle can leave you stuck and may lead to expensive repairs. If you notice a smell, a warning light, a leak, or a temperature change, it is better to have the system inspected early. With hotter temperatures around the corner it’s better to be prepared.
Contact the service professionals at Colonial Service Station today to schedule a cooling system inspection and let us help keep your vehicle running at the right temperature.