Checking Engine Coolant
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The radiator in your car is a very important part of what keeps your engine functioning smoothly. It contains antifreeze which is what ensures that your engine does not become overheated. Like any other component of your car, the radiator must be maintained and regularly checked on for possible damages. If it is damaged it could lead to more serious issues such as leaks. This can become detrimental to your vehicle and its potential lifespan. Keeping an eye on both your radiator and the coolant inside is very important as weather changes can directly affect it.
Some people make the mistake of thinking that putting water in their radiator is enough. It really never is. The coolant inside your radiator rises to the boiling point when your engine heats up and the car is in motion. The job it does is to take the heat away from the engine so that it doesn’t become overheated and breakdown. If you run out of coolant or it gets too low, the engine may not be properly cooled and then it gets too hot. This could lead to an engine that steams or smokes and leaves you on the side of the road.
The radiator is pretty easy to pinpoint under the hood of your car. It is usually white but you can see the level of the fluid through it. It should also be clearly labeled as the radiator. There are lines down the side of it that indicate the levels of the coolant and where it should be when full. It’s best to check the coolant level when the car is cold and has not been running recently. If you check when it’s hot then the levels may not be accurate.
If the coolant levels are just as they should be then you don’t have to do anything further. Just leave it and make sure to check it again another time. However, if you need to add more coolant you can choose between pre-mixed and the type that you have to mix with water yourself. It tends to be much more convenient to buy the type that is already mixed. Then you just have to pour it in up to the line that indicates it is full. Take care not to over fill it on accident.
You must know and remember that it is easy to spill even a few drops of antifreeze. It is a very sweet tasting fluid that many animals find to be pleasant tasting. Sadly, it can kill them if they lick it so make sure to prevent spills or clean up any that do occur. Make sure that you check over your radiator for any leaks or cracks. They could be very small and end up leaking fluid out on the road. Take care of small leaks right away before they can grow into something that is much bigger. Maintaining your coolant levels and your radiator is vital for getting around safely in your vehicle. Make it part of your general automotive maintenance.
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