When you own a vehicle, it is important to make sure that it is always kept in the best condition possible. This way your vehicle will remain safe and reliable for when you would need to drive it. Anytime you notice an issue, make sure to bring the vehicle in so we can inspect it for you. By doing this, you can help to save time, money, and stress in the long run. If you ignore an issue, it has the chance to become a larger problem, while also affecting other parts of the vehicle.
Coolants that are Leaking
Your vehicle is filled with fluids of all kinds. Some fluids make it run while other fluids cool it down. The most common fluids in a motor vehicle are engine oil and gasoline. Although they fuel the car, these two fluids are not what can cause overheating. Coolant is often the culprit in cases of vehicles overheating. Coolant can leak out through a crack in the cylinder, or a weak gasket head. It can also leak from radiators, the water pump, a heater hose and a number of other places. When the coolant leaks, it evaporates, causing areas of the vehicle that are of high heat already to overheat. There is usually no external way for an untrained eye to tell where the coolant is leaking. Even if it leaves behind residue, there is no exact way to place a stain to discern where the fluid is coming from. Another less common fluid leak is a faulty water pump. This is probably the most dangerous type of leak, as it can cause the engine to overheat. If you see any leakage stains in your garage, or where you park your car, and your vehicle is overheating, it is highly suggested that you bring your car in as soon as possible. This way we can inspect the vehicle for what might be causing the source of the leak.
Know if the Fan is the Issue
Many of the cars on today’s market have rear wheel drive. With these types of vehicles in particular, a cooling fan has something known as a clutch. A defective clutch can cause overheating, as it causes slippage, not allowing the fan to cool as much as it is designed to. There are also cases where the fan simply does not work. This can be caused by a number of factors, including a broken fan belt. It is not uncommon for a fan to have a missing shroud as well, which can decrease the effectiveness of the fan’s cooling ability by up to half. Fan problems are one of the most common causes of vehicle overheating, and it is for this reason they are often overlooked.
Don’t Ignore Issues with the Car
Whether damaged radiators are the culprit, or leaking fluid, overheating problems are dangerous, and should be addressed as soon as possible. By noticing an issue at the first sign, you can prevent further damage to the vehicle, as well as a costly repair bill. A vehicle that has been well maintained can be safe and reliable for when you drive.