When your engine fails, and you notice steam coming from beneath your hood, you might think your car is done for good. Instead of replacing your entire vehicle, you might just need to make replacements within the cooling system. While your auto air conditioning system is responsible for keeping you cool, your auto cooling system is dedicated to keeping your engine cool. So, below are the major signs that your cooling system is on the fritz and requires some care to prevent widespread damage.

3 Warning Signs that Your Car Has a Cooling System Problem

1. An Overheated Engine

The quintessential sign of a cooling system issue is a smoking engine. It signals that at least one part of the cooling system, such as the radiator, drive belt, or coolant, has failed. It’s highly recommended to avoid driving, and instead, call a professional towing service that can take you to an auto repair shop. Damage can spread quickly throughout your engine if you continue to drive after it has overheated.

2. Constantly Low Coolant Levels

When coolant is added to your cooling system, it’s mixed with water in a ratio based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Coolant is flushed by a water pump throughout the engine and radiator to prevent it from overheating. It also prevents the water it’s mixed with from causing rust and corrosion in the engine. So, if your car frequently alerts you that coolant levels are low, then you may have an internal leak or damage in your cooling system, such as a cracked hose or a broken engine gasket.

3. A Leak Underneath Your Car

In addition to an internal coolant leak, you could also face an external coolant leak. After parking your car overnight, you should regularly check underneath it for signs of liquid. A coolant leak will occur near the front of your car where the radiator is located. If you find a substance that is either yellow-green, light blue, or bright orange, you can conclude you have a coolant leak.

While your auto cooling system prevents your engine from overheating, your auto air conditioning system keeps you from overheating inside the car. If your vehicle isn’t providing you with the cool air you desire, then give family-owned Chik’s Auto Air a call at (808) 591-1726. Located in Honolulu, HI, they have over 45 years of experience with repairing auto air conditioning systems. Their focus on outstanding customer service, high-quality repairs, and timely workmanship has made them the region’s top auto air conditioning and repair shop. Visit them online to learn more about their auto air conditioning system expertise.