A car’s cooling system consists of the engine, radiator, cooling fan, water pump, hoses, and thermostat, all of which work to control the vast amount of heat created during the engine’s combustion process. When any of these elements fail, your engine can overheat, leading you to the nearest auto repair shop. Take care of these routine maintenance tasks to ensure your cooling system functions well. 

Maintenance Checklist for Your Vehicle’s Cooling System

1. Test the Cooling Fan 

The cooling fan circulates air throughout the radiator, and if it malfunctions, a car’s engine can quickly overheat. A technician should test the cooling fan once or twice a year to verify the drive and fan belts work correctly and aren’t loose or cracked.

2. Flush the Coolants

Antifreeze is the coolant that flows through a car’s radiator and engine to keep the vehicle at the right temperature. It will break down and lose its potency over time, so auto repair shops recommend checking it with every season change. While every vehicle is different, a general rule is to flush the radiator every 30,000 miles. A technician can tell when coolant needs flushing from its color.

3. Test the Radiator Pressure

The radiator’s pressure cap on the coolant reservoir should be inspected for cracks. An experienced auto repair shop technician will also perform a pressure test to spot external leaks within the cooling system, including the radiator, hoses, water pump, engine coolant passages, and heater core.

Have your cooling system inspected by the experienced technicians at Chung's Alignment & Auto Services in Honolulu, HI. For almost 20 years, this family-owned certified NAPA® AutoCare Center has helped drivers with everything from brake service to oil changes. Call (808) 744-8692 or visit the auto repair shop online to schedule an appointment with an ASE®-certified technician today.