How to Maintain a Car Cooling System

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Consult your vehicle-specific owner's manual regarding the proper ratio of coolant to water.

   An improper balance of coolant can cause damage to the water pump.
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   Step 2: Wait until the engine is completely cool before proceeding.

   ,, Your owner's manual will provide information regarding the ideal fluid level in relation to the fill line. , When the vehicle is running beyond optimal temperature (anything into the red portion of the gauge), this is the first sign of trouble. ,, Move on to the next step if you see any fluid under your car. ,,, A leak in the cooling system will either cause the pressurized fluids to spew, or you will hear a hissing sound. ,, If you discover fluid in the reservoir tank, this could indicate a serious problem with your engine. ,,, If the temperature gauge goes into the red, and you don't see the fan on, this would indicate a bad sensor, which would require a simple and inexpensive repair. , If it comes on, but is ineffectual, proceed with the following steps to check the thermostat. ,, It can be found under the hose that connects the engine to the radiator. ,,, If the gauge stays cool, and the fan operates properly, consider the problem solved. , If you feel cold spots, then you probably have a clog somewhere within the radiator. ,,,,
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   Step 3: Twist off the radiator cap by turning it counterclockwise.

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   Step 4: Ensure that the radiator is full according to that model's specifications.

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   Step 5: Keep an eye on your vehicle's temperature gauge.

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   Step 6: Assume there is a leak somewhere in the cooling system if you experience an acrid smell when the engine is at ideal temperature.

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   Step 7: Pull over

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   Step 8: turn the engine off and look at the ground.

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   Step 9: Open your hood.

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    Step 10: Examine the water pump for any signs of scorching

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    Step 11: which would indicate a leak in that component.

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    Step 12: Look and listen for any obvious leaks.

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    Step 13: Acquire a rag

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    Step 14: if there are no obvious leaks.

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    Step 15: Wrap the rag around the cap to the overflow reservoir

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    Step 16: and twist it off.

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    Step 17: Investigate further if you discover no leaks and there is no coolant in the overflow compartment.

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    Step 18: Park the vehicle and leave it idling.

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    Step 19: Watch the gauges.

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    Step 20: Watch the fan.

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    Step 21: Allow the engine to cool.

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    Step 22: Locate the thermostat.

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    Step 23: Remove the existing thermostat and purchase a new one.

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    Step 24: Reinstall the thermostat.

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    Step 25: Repeat the testing procedure with the car idling.

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    Step 26: Check the radiator for cold spots after the engine is warm.

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    Step 27: Remove and inspect the radiator hoses.

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    Step 28: Replace the hoses as needed.

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    Step 29: Take the car to a mechanic for a radiator flush and fill if none of the preceding steps solve the problem.

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    Step 30: Compose a maintenance schedule which involves flushing the radiator at regulated time intervals.

Detailed Guide

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