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Overheating is the most common cause of vehicle breakdowns and internal
engine damage. As the heat rises in the summer, our shop sees more and more
people coming in after breakdowns due to cooling system failure. But there is an
easy answer!

A cooling system flush can keep your engine running smooth and cool even on
the hottest days. Regularly changing your coolant, aka antifreeze, can prevent
larger problems for your cooling system and engine and keep your family safe on
the road!

What is the Cooling System?

The cooling system is responsible for keeping your vehicle’s engine from
overheating. The engine runs best at a high temperature, so the cooling system
helps it to heat up quickly then keep the engine at a regular, constant temperature
without overheating as it runs. It accomplishes this by transferring heat into the air
with the help of coolant, or antifreeze, and the other components of the cooling
system.

In most cars, the cooling system works by circulating radiator fluid (the mixture of
coolant and water) through parts and pipes in the engine to absorb the heat and
cool the engine. A radiator at the end of the system captures and transfers the
heat from the fluid into the air.

But my coolant still looks clear, why should I change it?

New coolant usually appears a bright green or a bright red color, as in the picture
below

As the coolant runs through the engine, rust and contaminants caused by
oxidation and corrosion mix in with the fluid. Unfortunately, when you look under
the hood to check your fluid, it may still appear clean and clear even though these
contaminants rest under the surface, unseen and threatening the life of your
engine.

This video from Monday Morning Mechanic shows the striking visual of these
hidden contaminants, and the threats they pose.

How often should I flush my coolant?

Most manufacturers recommend that you change the radiator fluid (the mixture of
antifreeze coolant and water) every 24,000 to 36,000 miles or 24 to 36 months.
Depending on your driving habits, you may need to flush your coolant more often
– we recommend every 1­2 years.

Be leery of “extended life” coolants that tout 100,000 mile lifespans – even these
can accumulate rust and contaminants that threaten your engine life. These
impurities could add up and cause bigger problems before you reach the 100,000
mile check. Even with “extended life” fluids, you should have these coolants
checked frequently.

What happens if I don’t?

Failing to change your coolant can take as much as 100,000 miles off the life of
your engine, in addition to big problems and expensive repairs.

Coolant flows through your entire engine, leaving behind contaminants. They can
collect on the radiator, inside the water pump or thermostat, getting stuck and
preventing the components from working appropriately. Plastic components, like
the water pump, can wear and break apart. If the water pump breaks, the system
won’t be able to move the water and coolant through the engine. Hoses can also
react to contaminants, becoming swollen and rusty on the inside even as they
appear normal on the outside. With excess heat, belts that control the cooling
system and steering will start cracking, eventually breaking and disabling the
systems (imagine a steering belt break, not being able to control your vehicle!).

Bottom line – contaminated coolant can lead to cooling system failure, causing
your engine to overheat and break down, leaving you stranded on the road!

We assume your family’s safety is at the top of your priority list, so having your
coolant flushed or even just checked while it’s still scorching outside, and before it
gets cold, should be as well. Avoid expensive engine breakdowns by having your
coolant flushed before problems arise. Call us at 585­242­2360 or stop by our
shop.