Car Cooling System

Cooling system in a car protects the engine from overheating. An efficient cooling system to keep the engine protected. One must always use good quality coolant for car engine. The coolant level must be checked at least once a fortnight. During summers, it must be checked and preferably at more frequent intervals during summers.

Function
Cooling system removes excess heat from the engine, thus keeping the engine functional at the most efficient temperature. It lets the engine to reach its ideal operation temperature. No matter what the operating conditions are, the coolant keeps the engine running.

Why it is Necessary
A cooling system is mandatory in any internal combustion engine. In its absence, parts of the engine would melt from the heat of the burning petrol.

Parts of Cooling System
The cooling system includes the engine's water jacket, thermostat, water pump, radiator and radiator cap, cooling fan (electric or belt-driven), hoses, heater core and overflow tank.

Pressure Cap
The pressure cap over the radiator must be given specific attention. When the coolant reaches high temperature, it forces its way through a valve in the pressure cap and the overflow is then collected in the coolant reservoir. When the engine becomes cool, the vacuum created in the radiator draws the overflow back. If the pressure cap is malfunction, the coolant evaporates through the pressure cap when it reaches high temperature, instead of flowing into the coolant reservoir. The engine could be harmed due to the reduced level of coolant.

Cooling System Hose
Any cooling system hose that is cracked, and feels hard or spongy when squeezed must be replaced immediately. Fan belt has a vital role in cooling the engine. So make sure that it is working properly.

Head Gasket
If you see large amounts of white smoke emanating from the exhaust, you could have a problem with your head gasket. So you must get seen by a technician.