Coolant is a necessary fluid for your car that regulates the temperature and stops the vehicle from overheating. It also keeps engine corrosion down and ensures that heat transfer is occurring properly. If your coolant is failing, your vehicle will demonstrate signs that auto repair is necessary.

How to Know Coolant Is Failing

1. Constant Refills

If you seem to be constantly refilling coolant levels, you may have a leak that is causing trouble with your car’s temperatures. Check around and under your car for a green, pink, or orange puddle. Aside from needing auto repairs to fix the leak, the sticky substance is toxic to people and pets and should be cleaned up. If you don’t see a puddle, you may have an internal leak that can damage parts inside. Visit an auto shop as soon as possible.

2. Sweet Smell

If you notice a sweet odor under the hood or inside the car, the heating and cooling system is blowing coolant particles through the vents whenever you turn on the heater. Call an auto repair specialist immediately to avoid contact with the toxic fluid.

3. Cold Car

Because the heating system uses the same coolant the engine needs, a problem with the air in the cabin points to a problem with the fluid. Leaks, clogs, or compromised components can be affecting the heating system and leading to failure.

4. Abnormal Temperature Range

You want the temperature gauge to sit comfortably between high and low, but if the gauge begins to edge in either direction, coolant is breaking down and not doing its job. The issues with coolant can range from low levels to a clog or a broken fan not circulating. It’s best to have the vehicle inspected before it overheats and leaves you stranded.

5. Inefficient Gas Mileage

When your car is working at the right temperature levels, fuel burns more efficiently. The engine will power effectively, and your gas mileage will be on point. When coolant is a problem, the engine temperature drops below acceptable ranges and fuel cannot vaporize for complete combustion, leading to increased gas usage.

If you suspect your coolant system is having an issue, call Kettering-Oakwood Automotive for auto repairs. Located in Dayton, OH, their auto mechanics provide regularly scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes or full diagnostics on major repairs. Call (937) 299-2468 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to read some customer reviews.