Recognizing Cooling System Trouble

As soon as you fire up your vehicle, your engine temperature starts climbing. With a cooling system that is working properly, you'll have the measures in place to regulate the heat. But if any component of your cooling system fails, then your engine may overheat, which could cause serious problems. When you first notice an indication of cooling system trouble, you'll want to get your vehicle to the shop for an inspection. Here's a look at six signs of a cooling system problem.

Smoking

A classic indication of overheating is that smoke is emerging from under the hood. When this occurs, you should wait for your car to fully cool down and then check your coolant, which may need to be topped up. If this issue has left you stuck on the shoulder, it may be best to just call in for roadside assistance.

High Reading on Temp Gauge

It's important to keep an eye on your dashboard's temperature gauge. If it enters the red, you'll want to safely get off the road and call up a mechanic who can advise you on whether or not your vehicle seems safely drivable.

Decreasing Gas Mileage

Vehicles attain the best gas mileage when operating within a healthy temperature range. If the temperature gets high, fuel-efficiency could drop.

Low Coolant Level

An internal coolant leak could be why your coolant level is dropping. Ethylene glycol is not an engine lubricant, so you don't want it getting mixed up with your oil.

White Exhaust Smoke

White exhaust smoke suggests that coolant is leaking internally. Whenever exhaust smoke seems discolored, it's best to try to identify the underlying issue.

External Coolant Leak

From time to time, you'll want to take a look at the ground where your vehicle is often parked and check for signs of automotive fluid leaks. Coolant is identifiable by its bright color, which is often green, but may be another color like yellow or pink.

If you need auto repair, be sure to bring your vehicle to a reputable mechanic. For cooling system repair in Sedona, AZ, contact the experts at Red Rock Auto Center at (928) 451-7431. Feel free to give Red Rock Auto Center a call today to schedule an appointment for any of your vehicle's repair or maintenance needs!

Red Rock Auto Center Blog
Posted: November 26, 2020

Written and Published By MORBiZ