Cooling System - Radiators, Hoses and Belts

he cooling system is designed to regulate the functioning temperature of your engine. Although these are sometimes confused with the ac & heating unit on the inside cabin of your vehicle, these systems are just as important when keeping the correct temperature within your motor. If the engine gets too hot, it can lead to multiple issues and can leave you stranded on the side of the road.

The cooling system removes the heat from the automatic transmission and engine to distribute it away from the transmission and engine. The water pump distributes the coolant throughout the engine and back to the radiator which then absorbs the heat. After absorption the coolant is then returned back to the engine where it is then scattered or distributed. Each component in this process is vital to your engine functioning properly.

Despite the obvious parts needed to keep your engine running with the optimum temperature, the belts, hoses and radiator can often be overlooked or not given a second thought. Belts can sustain a lot of wear and tear, so they should routinely be inspected BEFORE they end up breaking or becoming very stretched out. The hoses can be easily broken with enough wear and tear and the radiator can become clogged or overheated if the other cooling system parts are not functioning properly. Without quality parts and routine maintenance, your engine could end up in very poor shape.

When should you come in to check your cooling & heating system?

The National Automotive Radiator Service Association (NARSA) recommends that motorists have a seven-point preventative cooling system maintenance check at least once every two years if there are, of course, no other problems presenting. The seven-point program is designed to identify any areas that need attention. It consists of:

  • a visual inspection of all cooling system components, including belts and hoses
  • a radiator pressure cap test to check for the recommended system pressure level
  • a thermostat check for proper opening and closing
  • a pressure test to identify any external leaks to the cooling system parts; including the radiator, water pump, engine coolant passages, radiator and heater hoses and heater core
  • an internal leak test to check for combustion gas leakage into the cooling system
  • an engine fan test for proper operation
  • a system power flush and refill with car manufacturer's recommended concentration of coolant

If it’s time for a checkup, or you suspect you may have a cooling system issue, call or stop by today to speak to our qualified staff for your routine inspection and let us get you back on the road safely. We also provide complimentary local shuttle service to our amazing customers as a thank you and convenient way to get where you need to go while we take care of your vehicle needs!