When to Service Your Car’s Cooling System
Your vehicle relies on its cooling system for proper function. Having your cooling system regularly checked and maintained can help to keep things in good working order. Other than just flushing your cooling system periodically, there are other things which you can do to keep your coolant system working well.
Since other components (the pins, pistons, bearings and crankshaft, for example) can be damaged if the cooling system is not working properly, you should have your cooling system checked out at least once a year. Some newer vehicles tend to trap air, which can reduce heater output – damaging your engine.
Look through the owner’s manual for your vehicle to see what sort of servicing is recommended; you may need to bleed the system and of course, ensure that your reservoirs are all properly filled. If you are not sure about what needs filling and when, ask your mechanic for advice (or have them do it for you).
What Are the Elements of a Cooling System?
You already know the function of your cooling system – it keeps your engine running at its best by keeping things at the proper temperature. But what are the parts of your coolant system which you need to pay attention to?
- Antifreeze and/or coolant are both necessary for your coolant system to do its work. This prevents freezing and deters corrosion. Your antifreeze should be changed every 24,000 miles or two years, whichever comes first.
- The cooling fan – this keeps your engine cool by ensuring air flow through the radiator. This fan may be electric or mechanical, depending on the make and model of car you drive. If these fans fail, your engine may overheat. You mechanic can check the fan belts and drive belts to make sure that these stay in working order. Any cracked or loose belts should be replaced immediately.
- Your radiator cap should fit snugly; check the fit of your radiator cap annually if not more often. Don’t try removing the radiator cap while your engine is still hot – you could seriously burn yourself.
- The coolant reservoir – this where the fluids which the coolant system relies on go. If these get low, your mechanic will refill your reservoirs to keep everything running smoothly.
- The thermostat – just as in your home, the thermostat in your car regulates temperature. A poorly functioning thermostat can lead to low energy efficiency, overheating and engine knocking.
Our automotive heating and cooling systems are important. When you take your car in for a check-up, your mechanic should always examine your car’s HVAC system to ensure the proper function of this vital system.
Check-Ups Are Key
Your mechanic can examine your car and make sure that everything is working properly. Any needed repairs can be scheduled or made on the spot. Regular coolant system checkups are key to avoiding costly coolant system repairs later. Make sure that your mechanic checks your coolant system every time you take your car in to be looked at.
Tags: automotive, engine, engine knocking, parts