In this blog entry, the professional Chicagoland vehicle towing team here at Towing Chicago will recommend some effective vehicle cooling system maintenance tips to survive the Summer heat.
Why are vehicle cooling systems so important in hot weather?
- Cooling systems prevent engines from overheating
- Cooling systems circulate antifreeze coolant through your radiator and engine block to dissipate heat
- This is important in hot summer months
- Overheated engines can cause blown head gaskets, warped cylinders, total engine failure, or sudden vehicle breakdowns
How can I ensure my cooling system is working properly?
- Coolant Level Checking– Check your vehicle coolant level and make sure it’s between the minimum and maximum marks. If it is low, top it off with the proper mixture of water and antifreeze. Check if the coolant looks rusty, dirty, or full of debris – if so, you need to flush the system. Old or contaminated coolant does not properly work and can cause engine overheating.
- Hose and Belt Inspection– Inspect the rubber hoses that carry coolant through your radiator for cracking, bulging, leaks near hose clamps, or soft spots that squish when pinched. Also check your engine serpentine belt that powers the water pump or other vehicle components for signs of wear, frays, or cracks. Burst hoses or broken belts can suddenly disable your cooling system causing engine failure.
- Radiator and Cap Inspection – Check your radiator for signs of blockages, leaks, and damage. Clean the front of the radiator with a gentle brush or hose. Replace worn out radiator caps to lower the risk of overheating.
- Water Pump and Thermostat Testing– Have a mechanic perform diagnostics on your thermostat and water pump. Broken thermostats stay closed too long which prevents coolant from moving to the engine. Failed water pumps cause the entire cooling system to shut down. Signs of water pump or thermostat issues include sudden temperature fluctuations, whining sounds in our engine area, or coolant leaks under your vehicle.
- Coolant Flushing– Perform a coolant flush every 30,000-50,000 miles or every 2-5 years based on your driving mileage. Flushing your coolant removes scale deposits, rust, and expired coolant that doesn’t work to protect your vehicle against high temperatures. This is cheaper than engine replacement.
What are the main signs of vehicle cooling system trouble?
- Steam emanating from under your hood
- Temperature gauges quickly rising after starting
- Sweet smells from leaking coolant
- Low coolant lights, or a check engine light
- Coolant leaking and puddling under your vehicle