Most people underestimate the temperatures that build around their engine while they’re driving. The internal combustion process that powers your vehicle releases so much heat that a single gallon of burned fuel can boil over 100 gallons of water. Much of that heat is released into your car’s cooling system. If anything in the system malfunctions, the temperature around your engine can rise sharply. That can potentially cause your engine to overheat.
It’s important to periodically inspect the coolant and the parts that comprise your cooling system to make sure everything is working efficiently. In this article, I’ll describe how to check the level, strength, and condition of the coolant.
Is There Enough
Leaks can develop over time that allow your coolant levels to decline. That’s why it is vital that you check the level on a regular basis. Otherwise, your engine can overheat, causing expensive damage in the process.
Check the fluid level on the reservoir. It does no good to check the level on the radiator because that component only takes coolant when it needs it (during operation). If you notice that the reservoir level is low, replenish it and look for leaks. Look at the hoses and plugs. Also, check the area surrounding the radiator and water pump. If you cannot find a leak, check the cooling fan and drive belt.
Checking The Strength
The strength of the coolant refers to ratio of antifreeze to water, and the type of antifreeze used. In most cases, a 50-50 blend is appropriate. If ethylene glycol antifreeze is used, the blend will offer protection up to 255 degrees Fahrenheit and as low as -34 degrees Fahrenheit. If propylene glycol antifreeze is used, the range of protection is 257 degrees Fahrenheit down to -26 degrees Fahrenheit.
Even though a 50-50 blend is appropriate, the level of antifreeze can be raised to nearly 70%. Doing so expands the range of protection. However, it also makes the blend less capable of of carrying heat.
Is It In Good Condition
It is nearly impossible to tell whether the coolant is in good condition by simply looking at it. If it contains a conventional ethylene glycol antifreeze, you should plan on replacing it every 25,000 to 30,000 miles. The reason is due to the additives. While ethylene glycol does not expire, the additives in the antifreeze will begin to break down over time. When that happens, corrosion can form. This is especially important if your vehicle’s radiator is made from aluminum because it is more susceptible to corrosion than iron is.
Because your engine endures extreme temperatures during operation, there is a constant risk of overheating. Your cooling system prevents that from happening. But, in order for your car’s cooling system to work efficiently and keep temperatures under control, it must have plenty of coolant in good condition. Get into the habit of checking it regularly. Doing so can prevent a costly engine overhaul down the road.
Tags: antifreeze, coolant, coolant levels, cooling fan, cooling system, engine, ethylene glycol, fahrenheit, hoses, internal combustion, leaks, Parts, propylene glycol antifreeze, radiator, reservoir level, system malfunctions, temperatures, vehicle, water pump
