Coolant 101: Essential Guide To Preventing Overheating
Picture this: you’re cruising along the scenic Garden Route, the sun shining on the glassy ocean, the road winding between lush green forests. Everything seems idyllic until suddenly, you notice the temperature gauge climbing toward the red zone.
Your car is overheating, and the cause might be something as simple (and crucial!) as the coolant. Let’s dive into why this essential fluid is vital for your vehicle’s health and how you can keep your engine running smoothly.
What Is Coolant?
Coolant, also known as antifreeze, does some very important work in and around your car’s engine. It’s a fluid that circulates through your engine to regulate its temperature. By absorbing excess heat and transferring it to the radiator, coolant prevents your engine from overheating.
In the South African climate, where temperatures can soar, especially during summer months in places like Pretoria and Durban, maintaining proper coolant levels is crucial for avoiding overheating.
What Happens Without Coolant?
Imagine your engine as a well-oiled machine that needs a steady temperature to function correctly. Without coolant, the engine’s temperature rises uncontrollably, leading to potential damage. Here’s a look at what could go wrong:
- Warning signs: The first clue that your coolant might be running low is usually a dashboard warning light or an abnormal temperature gauge. If you see the temperature needle climbing towards the red, it’s time to take action.
- Automatic cut-off: Many modern vehicles are equipped with an automatic engine cut-off feature. This system helps prevent serious damage by shutting down the engine if it gets too hot, allowing it to cool down before you can restart it.
- Engine damage: If your vehicle lacks an automatic cut-off system or you continue driving despite the warning signs, you risk serious engine damage. Components such as the water pump, head gasket, and even the cylinder head could be affected, leading to costly repairs.
How Modern Engines Manage Coolant Issues
Modern vehicles come with advanced features to protect against overheating. For instance, high-end models often have a safe or limp-home mode, which adjusts engine performance to prevent damage. This mode allows you to drive a short distance even if the engine is running hot, giving you a chance to reach a repair shop or home.
Recognising Low Coolant
Being aware of the signs of low coolant can save you from a roadside breakdown:
- High-temperature gauge. If your temperature gauge is creeping towards the red zone, it’s a sign that the engine is getting too hot. Pull over safely and check the coolant levels.
- Heater issues. If your car’s heater is blowing constant hot air or not working at all, it could indicate a problem with the coolant system, as the heater relies on engine heat.
- Poor fuel economy. Overheating engines can lead to inefficient fuel burning. If you notice a drop in fuel economy, check the coolant levels.
- Sweet smell. Coolant has a distinctly sweet odour. If you smell this in the cabin, it might be leaking, and you should address the issue promptly.
- Coolant light. Most cars have a dashboard light shaped like a thermometer with wavy lines. If this light comes on, it indicates that the engine is too hot and needs immediate attention.
What To Do If You’re Stranded
If you find yourself on the side of the road with an overheating engine, here’s what you can do:
- Pull over. Find a safe spot and turn off the engine to prevent further damage.
- Wait for cooling. Allow the engine to cool down before opening the bonnet, as it can be extremely hot.
- Add water. If necessary, add water to the cooling system as a temporary measure. However, this should be replaced with proper coolant as soon as possible.
- Call for help. If you have a leak or the problem persists, contact roadside assistance or a breakdown service.
