Knowing how your cooling system works and what to look for is the key to preventing your car from overheating or freezing during the winter. The entire cooling system should be inspected and maintained on a regular basis. By keeping all components of the cooling system running optimally, you can extend the life of your engine and reduce the risk of a costly towing job.
Inspect all radiator hoses whenever you maintain your car. Hoses can leak when they become brittle, cracked or spongy when worn, or when bumps or bulges develop in the lining. You should also check to be sure the connection between the hose end and radiator and engine is tight.
Water pumps usually fail by either developing cracks in the seals or by the bearings going bad. You can prevent pump failure by inspecting both on a regular basis. Check the water pump periodically for water stains on the pump housing or looseness in the shaft pulley. If you hear a chirping noise when running the engine or see leaks near the engine, the water pump should be examined by a mechanic.
Look inside the radiator for a foamy beige residue or fluid. This fluid is caused by a mixture of oil and engine coolant, and may indicate a worn or cracked head gasket. The head gasket provides a seal between the crankcase and the engine block, and when damaged can cause the engine to heat up to the point where the pistons, valves and cylinders actually melt. This is a very serious condition that can be avoided through regular maintenance checks.
Examine the entire cooling system of your car for any types of leaks. It's usually easy to spot brightly colored fluids such as anti-freeze and coolant, especially when they are bubbling, spraying or dripping onto your driveway. Antifreeze is toxic to pets if ingested so be sure to remove any fluid if it leaks from the cooling system.
Have the radiator flushed according to the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations. This is done by draining the anti-freeze or coolant from the bottom of the radiator, flushing the core out with cold water from a garden hose and refilling the radiator with the proper fluid. A radiator flush prevents engine deposits and debris from gathering inside the radiator, which can cause overheating.
