- Cooling System -

Stay Cool With Reliable Cooling System Care

As a vehicle's engine operates, a chemical reaction takes place inside it, converting fuel into energy. The produced energy then powers the vehicle's movement. However, this process also generates a byproduct: heat.

The heat needs to be dissipated to keep the engine running at an optimal temperature. That's where the vehicle cooling systems come into the picture. The automotive cooling system maintains the engine's temperature through a series of interconnected components.

However, when any of these components malfunctions, the coolant system can fail, leading to engine overheating and potential damage. Auto Fix specializes in diagnosing and fixing these issues to make sure your vehicle stays cool.

How Does a Cooling System Work?

The cooling system in your vehicle has one role: to keep the engine at the perfect temperature. It all starts with the water pump, which pushes coolant — a mix of water and antifreeze — through the engine.

As the coolant absorbs heat, it moves through the radiator hose to the car radiator, where it's cooled down by airflow and the cooling fan. The cooled liquid then recirculates back into the engine for continuous coolant circulation.

The thermostat acts as a gatekeeper. It ensures the coolant flows only when the engine temperature gets too high. Meanwhile, the radiator cap maintains the right pressure in the system to optimize cooling efficiency.

Several parts of the engine cooling system can break down. At Auto Fix, our technicians are well-equipped to fix and replace all these components.

Common Issues in Vehicular Cooling Systems

Here are some common problems that can occur in your vehicle's cooling system.

Radiator Leakage

The radiator in your vehicle may leak due to worn-out seals or corrosion. When the radiator system leaks, you might notice wet spots, discoloration, or rust around the seams.

Solution: At Auto Fix, we use pressure tests to identify hard-to-detect leaks. The radiator sealant usually does the job for minor leaks but major ones may need a radiator replacement. We may also perform a cooling system flush to remove the contaminants that may have caused the radiator to corrode.

Water Pump Damage

A damaged water pump disrupts the coolant circulation needed to regulate engine temperature. It may be a result of worn-out bearings or a broken pulley.

If the engine bay makes a whining noise or there's a leak near the pump, it's time to have your water pump checked.

Solution:  At Auto Fix, we inspect the water pump and its components. If needed, we may replace the damaged water pump. Alternatively, we may replace the worn-out seals and gaskets around the pump to prevent future damage.

Thermostat Malfunction

The thermostat may malfunction if it gets stuck open or closed. When stuck open, it causes the engine to run too cold. On the other hand, a closed thermostat can cause overheating and potential engine damage.

A common sign of a malfunctioning thermostat is uneven heating in the radiator. If the engine takes too long to warm up or if it overheats quickly, have the thermostat checked.

Solution:  At Auto Fix, we replace the faulty thermostat for overheating prevention. We also check other parts of the cooling systems, such as the radiator and the coolant levels, to identify possible causes of the malfunction.

When Should You Come In for Cooling System Maintenance?

Regular maintenance can keep cooling systems working in top-notch condition. Ideally, you should come to Auto Fix for cooling system servicing every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

For engine coolants that contain silicates, we recommend coming in after every 30,000 miles or two years to get it changed. You can also consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.

Visit Auto Fix to Keep the Cooling System in Good Shape

Besides regular maintenance, you also need a trusted mechanic to turn to when your cooling system develops issues. From the cooling fan to the water pump to the thermostat, Auto Fix has the equipment and the expertise to diagnose and fix cooling system problems.

We provide a thorough inspection of the coolant level, coolant condition, radiator hoses, radiator cap, water pump, thermostat, fan belts, and more. With years of experience, we are pros at engine diagnostics. Visit us at 151 County Highway 55, Ottertail, MN 56571 for cooling system maintenance and repair services or give us a call at (218) 367-3670 for expert guidance.