Proper maintenance and regular checks of your car's engine cooling system are really important, especially in New Zealand's varied climate. A neglected cooling system is a common cause of costly engine damage and breakdowns, so by keeping everything in tip-top shape you'll give yourself (and your wallet!) peace of mind.
Fortunately, most cases of overheating can be avoided through some easy bits of routine maintenance. Here are some essential tips and tricks on how to care for your car's cooling system and help ensure pain-free motoring.
A car's cooling system is responsible for circulating coolant through the engine to regulate temperature and dissipate heat. The system typically includes a pump, a radiator, a radiator cap, an overflow tank, and hoses to connect everything. Sensors are also installed to enable temperature monitoring by the onboard computers.
Make it a habit to have a look at the coolant level in the overflow bottle every now and then. If it looks a little low, then top it up but be sure to avoid removing the radiator filler cap to top it up until the engine has cooled down. This typically takes a few hours.
When topping up or changing the coolant yourself, refer to your car's owner's manual for the appropriate type and quantity of coolant to use. If you're unsure, pop into your nearest garage for guidance.
If you find yourself needing to top up the coolant level frequently or notice puddles underneath the car, there may be a leak in the radiator or coolant hoses. If there are no visible signs of coolant leakage, it could be an internal leak within the engine, which could indicate a more serious issue. In either case, you should book your vehicle in to be looked over by a mechanic to prevent future headaches.
In addition to checking the coolant level, it's important to keep an eye on the temperature gauge. If the needle starts creeping above its normal range or it triggers a warning light, this may indicate a cooling system problem. If this happens, pull over to a safe location to avoid potential costly engine damage. AMI Roadside Rescue offers 24/7 roadside assistance, so adding this to your insurance for just $37 a year can provide peace of mind in these often stressful situations.
If you want to remember the three most important things about your cars cooling system, just follow these simple rules:
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This article is intended to provide general information only, and should not be substituted for any legal, financial, expert mechanical and technical advice or other professional advice. The information in this article is generally sourced from third-party websites and IAG New Zealand Limited does not guarantee or accept any liability for the accuracy of that information. Any references to third party websites in this article are not intended to constitute a recommendation or any endorsement by IAG New Zealand Limited.
