Tips on Maintaining Your Car’s Cooling System

Your vehicle’s engine heats up as it runs, requiring a properly maintained cooling system to prevent temperatures from climbing too high. This system not only keeps the engine from overheating, but promotes its efficient performance. 

To keep your vehicle running right, routine maintenance is key. Here at Sumter Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, our certified technicians are equipped to handle all your car care needs. Read on to learn more about the importance of your vehicle’s cooling system.

Cooling System Components 

There are many components involved in keeping your engine cool. The following parts work together to carry heat away from the engine and keep your vehicle achieving peak performance for miles to come:

• Coolant: Also known as antifreeze, this liquid carries heat away from the engine and transports it through the cooling system.
• Water pump: This component is driven by a belt and helps the coolant flow through the engine.
• Radiator: The radiator is the heart of the engine cooling system. Hot coolant circulates through the radiator’s fins and is cooled as air passes over it.
• Radiator cap: The cap fits into the radiator’s opening and allows coolant liquid to be added.
• Cooling fans: Powered by the engine’s rotation, the fans move air over the radiator when coolant climbs above a safe temperature to prevent overheating.
• Thermostat: Found between the engine and radiator, the thermostat serves as a temperature gauge as well as a valve controlling coolant flow. 
• Sensors: Most vehicles feature two sensors to monitorcoolant temperature and coolant level. The temperature sensor prevents overheating, while the level sensor monitors the amount of coolant in the system. 

How To Prevent Your Engine From Overheating

Now that each component has been identified, we’ve provided some helpful tips for preventing an overheated engine:

• Check your radiator cap regularly to ensure it is on correctly. Wait for it to cool down before unscrewing the cap, and stand back as pressure may be released.
• Maintain proper coolant levels. When levels dip below recommended levels, top them off with a reputable coolant, like the brand suggested by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
• Keep your radiator clean. Schedule radiator service every six months or so to ensure it is in good condition.
• Watch for rust or discoloration (due to corrosion) in your coolant.
• Schedule a cooling system flush every 30,000 miles or every 5 years, whichever comes first. 
• Check for leaks and coolant consumption. This may indicate a blown head gasket. For help stopping cooling system leaks, stop by our auto repairs shop today!

Keep in mind that proper maintenance can prevent overheating as well as costly cooling system repair services down the road. It can also help extend your vehicle’s longevity.

Get Cooling System Service in Sumter!

Because of the essential role your engine’s cooling system plays, its maintenance must be a top priority. The on-site Service Department at Sumter Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM specializes in general automotive repair and preventative car maintenance – including cooling system and radiator repair! Looking for high quality car service in Sumter? Schedule your appointment at Sumter CDJR today! 

We’re located in Sumter, SC, near Manning, Florence, Camden, and Columbia, SC! Our knowledgeable team is proud to serve South Carolina drivers throughout the region, so come see us today!

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