Cooling System Services at Mark Douglas Motorworks

Your car’s cooling system plays an important role in keeping the engine at a safe operating temperature while running. Without it, the engine can overheat and begin to cause serious damage to your engine. Over time, parts of the cooling system may wear out, clog, or develop leaks, causing issues that need attention. Recognizing the signs of cooling system problems can help prevent long-term damage to your vehicle.

Common Signs of Cooling System Issues

The cooling system is made to regulate your engine’s temperature by helping to circulate coolant through the radiator, hoses, and other components. When something goes wrong, your car will often give some warning signs. Here are some of the most common symptoms we see when it comes to the cooling system:

• Overheating Engine: A consistently high-temperature gauge is a clear indicator that something is wrong with the cooling system. If the engine overheats, it can cause serious damage, including a blown head gasket.
• Coolant Leaks: Puddles of green, orange, or pink fluid under your car suggest a coolant leak. This could be from a damaged hose, radiator, or water pump.
• Steam from the Hood: Seeing steam coming from under the hood means the cooling system is failing to regulate the engine’s temperature. Pull over immediately if this happens to avoid further damage.
• Low Coolant Levels: If you frequently need to add coolant, it could mean there’s a leak or a problem with the system’s components.
• Radiator Issues: A clogged or damaged radiator can prevent proper cooling. This might lead to engine overheating or inefficient temperature control.

These signs should not be ignored. Addressing cooling system problems promptly can save you from more extensive and expensive repairs later.