Avoid Radiator Problems

Most vehicle owners know that the green liquid called “coolant” in a radiator also keeps an engine from icing up in the dead of winter, especially in cold spells like we’ve recently experienced. Sometimes people make the mistake of adding only water in their radiator in the summer thinking it’s okay since winter is a long way off. However, this is a big mistake.

Radiator coolant raises the boiling point of water, allowing more heat to be transferred from the engine, which means cooler running, and no freezing. Low coolant levels spells trouble for your engine.

The good news? Checking coolant levels is fast and easy. Many cars have a translucent overflow container located near the radiator, with markings on the side indicating safe levels. If you have a vehicle without a visible overflow tank, you need to check the levels by looking inside the radiator. If you remove the radiator cap and can see the coolant level, your levels are fine. *Remember to check coolant levels when the car is cold.

If you’re low, you need to have a 50/50 mix of coolant and water. You can purchase premixed coolant that’s ready to add without measuring – a much easier route to take, especially for just topping off. Simply pop off the cap of the plastic overflow reservoir and add the mixture.

The simple step of monitoring coolant levels goes a long way in protecting your engine during frigid cold or intense summer heat.

Thank for reading the Super Cars blog!