Quick Fixes for Problems with Auto Cooling System

Steam spewing from under the car hood is when you ignore the starting signs of problems with your automobiles coolant system. Before it reaches the dragon breathing stage, there will be other signs to look out for – a bright red temperature warning light or the needle in the temperature gauge creeping up to the high mark. If this happens, it’s best to pull over and shut down the engine before it gets overheated.

A Quick Look at What Constitutes an Auto Coolant System

The coolant system ensures that your engine is running at a consistent temperature. It consists of various parts, each component vital in the cooling process. It includes the radiator that distributes the heat, fans to help the movement of air to cool the radiator, a thermostat valve that opens when the heat reaches the desired level, a water pump to circulate the liquid coolant (also called antifreeze) through the engine and hoses that carries the coolant between the radiator and the water pump.

5 Easy Steps if Your Car Overheats

Quick things you can do till you get your car to the auto repair shop for a professional look into its insides.

1. When the needle on the temperature gauge starts to climb, turn off the air conditioner since it puts stress on your overheated engines.
2. If there is no respite still, turn on the heater (that might make for a brutal ride) but it will transfer the heat away from that engine.
3. If the above steps haven’t helped and you notice the first signs of steam spewing out, stop. Pull over and pop the hood. Don’t try to do it manually. Wait for a good 30 minutes till the engine cools down before manually opening it. Once open check the coolant tank. It’s a plastic tank next to the radiator. If it’s empty then it might be leaking. Check for a puddle below the car.
4. It might be time to call a tow truck or if confident go for this quick fix. Place a cloth over the radiator cap and open away from you. Any heat you don’t want it to hit your face. If you keep spare coolant pour it in or pour in some cold water. Be careful not to pour it into a heated radiator or it might crack.
5. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water is needed. You can’t drive for long with just water poured into the radiator. So pull in to a service station as fast as you can.

If the problem is not with the coolant, then it might be a leaking hose, a broken fan belt or some other issue. Call in a tow truck. It’s best to check your auto coolant system regularly and especially before a long road trip.