The cooling circuit is an essential player in the proper functioning of your engine and is often one of the first causes of breakdowns. This is why it is necessary to check it regularly, especially before starting a long journey.
This system is one of the most neglected even though it is one of the simplest to maintain. Rust, scale, sediment and air pockets reduce its effectiveness and can cause many components to fail prematurely. Regular draining helps maintain the required pH while avoiding the accumulation of scale, corrosion, and other contaminants.
Warning Signs:
- Engine temperature warning light is ON.
- You notice excess fogging on the windshield.
- The heating air no longer produces the same heat as before.
- An unpleasant odor is released when you turn on the heating air.
- Coolant consumption.
- Inadequate coolant density.
- Hoses feel softer.
- Noisy water pump.
- Noisy drive belts.
- Radiator fan noisy or not working.
- Coolant leaks.
Service Tips:
Most manufacturers recommend checking the cooling system and a pH check every 12 months or 20 thousand kilometers (12,000 miles), and it is also essential flush the cooling system and replace the fluid every 36 months or 60 thousand kilometers (40,000 miles).
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Visual inspection drive belts, radiator, radiator cap, hoses, water pump, thermostat and other cooling system components for obvious signs of leaks, corrosion or damage.
Leak test cooling system pressure test to detect leaks, including radiator cap.
Coolant (anti-freeze) analyze and treatment, measure and balance pH to determine protection level against corrosion, freezing to maintain cooling system in its optimal performance.
Draining and flushing, cooling system is an essential maintenance task that helps remove old coolant, contaminants, and debris from the system, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Identify the source of cooling system malfunction. Common problems include leaks, overheating, clogs, water pump problems, thermostat problems, etc.
Engine coolant warning light ON, Ignoring the warning light and continuing to drive with an overheating engine can lead to costly repairs or engine failure.
Replacement drive belts, hoses, radiator heater, blower motor, thermostat, expansion tank, water pump and radiator.
A road test vehicle before delivery, using several simulations and driving maneuvers to test the performance of the engine and transmission at acceleration and at idle to ensure the proper functioning of the systems and that no fault lights come ON.
When driving Off-Road your vehicle's radiator and cooling system are subjected to more extreme conditions and may require special attention. Here are some specific tips for caring for the radiator and cooling system when driving Off-Road:
- Pre-Check: Before going on an off-road excursion, make sure the radiator and cooling system are in good condition. Check coolant levels and make sure there are no visible leaks.
- Radiator Protection: Install a protective grill or shield on the front of the radiator to protect against debris, rocks and branches that could damage the radiator fins or puncture the radiator itself.
- Temperature Monitoring: Monitor the coolant temperature regularly during off-road driving, especially during hill climbs or harsh driving conditions. If the temperature begins to rise, stop and allow the engine to cool.
- Cleaning After Each Ride: After each off-road excursion, clean the radiator and engine compartment thoroughly to remove mud, dirt and debris that could clog the radiator and compromise cooling.
- Lines Inspection: Check the coolant lines to ensure they are not damaged or cracked due to excessive bending or contact with objects. Replace them if necessary.
- Preparing For Water Crossings: When crossing waterways or fords, make sure the radiator and fan are in good condition and that the water level is not too high to avoid any aspiration of water into the cooling system.
- Emergency Equipment: Consider carrying a coolant leak repair kit, extra coolant, and basic tools for emergency repairs in case something goes wrong in the field.
- Use Caution On Climbs: Avoid overheating the engine during prolonged climbs by reducing speed, using lower transmission ratios, and allowing the engine to run at lower RPMs if possible.
When it comes to a vehicle's radiator, here are some important tips to consider to ensure its proper functioning and longevity:
- Regular Maintenance: Perform regular checks of the radiator for leaks, damage, or dirt buildup. Clean it periodically to remove obstructions and ensure optimal air circulation.
- Checking Coolant Level: Ensure that the coolant level is adequate and that its antifreeze concentration is appropriate for the climatic conditions. Top up or replace the fluid if necessary.
- Lines and Clamps Inspection: Check the condition of the coolant lines and clamps to ensure they are in good condition and secure. Replace them if you notice signs of leaking or deterioration.
- Debris Protection: Install protective grilles or screens to prevent debris such as road debris, insects or leaves from blocking the radiator air intakes. This can help prevent clogs and damage.
- Avoid Overheating: Monitor engine temperature and stop immediately if you notice overheating. Prolonged overheating can damage the radiator and other cooling system components.
- Repair Leaks Quickly: If you detect coolant leaks, have the radiator repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the engine and cooling system.
- Replacement If Necessary: If the radiator is damaged beyond repair or has significant leaks, consider replacing it to ensure effective engine cooling.
- Use Mild cleaning Products: When cleaning the radiator, use mild, non-corrosive cleaning products to avoid damage to the internal and external surfaces of the radiator.
When it comes to a vehicle's radiator and cooling system, here are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Regular Radiator Maintenance: Perform regular checks of the radiator for leaks, blockages, or damage. Clean it periodically to remove deposits of dirt and debris that could clog the fins and hinder cooling.
- Checking coolant Ph: Regularly check the level and condition of the coolant. Make sure it is clean, transparent and free of engine oil contamination. Top up or replace the fluid as necessary according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Inspection of pipes and clamps: Check the condition of the cooling system pipes and clamps. Look for signs of leaks, cracks or damage. Replace worn or damaged hoses and tighten clamps if necessary.
- Overheat Protection: Monitor the engine temperature using the dashboard. If the temperature rises abnormally, stop immediately to avoid damage to the engine and radiator. Also make sure the radiator is not clogged with debris or insects.
- Using Proper Coolant: Use a quality coolant recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Make sure it is compatible with the radiator and engine materials to avoid corrosion and deposits.
- Checking Water Pump: The water pump is a crucial component of the cooling system. Check its operation regularly and replace it if it shows signs of leaking or malfunctioning.
- Periodic Thermostat Replacement: The thermostat controls the flow of coolant through the radiator. Replace it periodically according to the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure optimal operation of the cooling system.
- Leak Diagnosis: If coolant leaks occur, perform a thorough diagnosis to locate and repair the source of the leak. Leaks can come from the pipes, radiator, water pump or head gasket, and require immediate attention.
- Once repairs are completed, our technicians will perform a road test and additional check to ensure the problem has been resolved and that no malfunction warning lights come ON.