Using Coolant to Keep Your Engine Cool

Coolant is one of the many different fluids an engine relies on for proper performance. Part of any routine maintenance should be to have this fluid checked. Maintaining the proper levels will enable your engine to run properly and avoid major repair costs in the future. The price of coolant and flushing your system is nothing compared to what you will face with an overheated engine. It is important that you not only not what the fluid does, but what you need to do to help your remain healthy.

Whether in the summer or winter, your engine is operating under extreme temperatures. Coolant is the fluid which helps to regulate the heat of the engine. This happens by the fluid absorbing the heat and dissipating it in one of two different ways. The radiator is the most common way to get rid of the excess heat from your engine. This method is more common in the summer time as in the winter the excess heat will be used in order to warm the passenger compartment. Cool air from outside will absorb the heat from the fluid and transfer it to the air in the passenger compartment.

Checking your coolant level is very easy to do. All you have to do is locate the refill container in your engine. This is usually a transparent plastic container. If you have trouble finding it, consult either your mechanic or your owner's manual. When judging the right amount of coolant to have in your car, keep in mind the temperature of the engine. If the engine is hot, the coolant will take up more space. So, if you check the level when the engine is hot, it should be at, or just below the "max" line. If the engine is cool, it should be at or just above the "minimum", or "fill" line. The exact terminology used will depend on your car.

Many people do not have their coolant system flushed and instead opt to add coolant as needed. This is a mistake because coolant picks up deposits over time. It will begin to break down and not work properly. Not only will it not cool your engine properly, it will not inhibit rust and corrosion. One of the main reasons why every mechanic will tell you not to use plain water is because coolant is far superior in being able to cool the engine and because of it's rust inhibitors. Flushing out your system will get rid of any old coolant and allow you to start fresh with pristine coolant offering maximum protection.

A very common mistake is to ignore coolant during the winter. Remember, being cold outside will not prevent your engine from overheating. The engine is in an enclosed area which traps heat. If there is not a proper cooling system in place, you can very easily overheat your engine and crack your block. Simple maintenance from your mechanic will help to keep your engine working properly in all seasons.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen