

To identify the quality of coolant, open the coolant expansion tank when the engine is cold and take a look inside. If it’s coolant, it indicates a leak in the system. If you find drops or puddles forming underneath your vehicle when it’s parked, check the viscosity and smell to identify the liquid. Unlike oil, coolant is clear and has a strong chemical smell to it. If the temperature climbs beyond normal levels, or if the engine overheats in a cloud of white smoke, that means there’s something wrong with the cooling system. Every vehicle is different, but in general, the engine should run at operating temperatures between 195 and 220 degrees. The dial starts at the bottom of the gauge, and gradually climbs to the optimal engine operating temperature. When driving, it’s important to keep an eye on the temperature gauge. The following are the main signs of a bad radiator. A fault in the system results in inefficient cooling and overheating of the engine. Without going into too much detail, the engine cooling system consists of a radiator, radiator fan, pipes, and a water pump. Vehicle design has changed over the years to reduce the air drag coefficient, but the vents of the grille still purposefully direct air inside the engine bay, and into the radiator. Air drag forms when the car is moving, causing a resistance that requires extra power to overcome. The reason why the radiator is placed in the front of the vehicle is to have as much air circulating through it as possible. However, once the engine temperature starts to increase, you should take the necessary steps to prevent overheating. With proper maintenance, the radiator can operate for hundreds of thousands of miles without showing any warning signs. Flushing the radiator with vinegar or baking soda is an interesting idea that is surprisingly effective when done right.
