Question 1

How often should I change my engine coolant?

Accepted Answer

Most vehicles need coolant replacement every 60,000 miles or 5 years, regardless of appearance. However, some long-life coolants can last up to 100,000 miles. We recommend professional testing every 30,000 miles to check pH levels and protection capacity, as degraded coolant becomes acidic and can damage your engine from the inside.

Question 2

What are the warning signs of cooling system problems?

Accepted Answer

Watch for temperature gauge fluctuations, coolant level drops without visible leaks, white exhaust steam on cold mornings, sweet coolant smell in the cabin, and rust stains around the radiator. These early warning signs often appear weeks before major failures, giving you time to prevent costly engine damage.

Question 3

Can I drive with an overheating engine?

Accepted Answer

Never continue driving with an overheating engine. Pull over immediately, turn on the heater full blast to help dissipate heat, and shut off the engine. Driving even a few minutes with an overheating engine can cause thousands in damage including warped heads, blown gaskets, and complete engine failure.

Question 4

Why does my car overheat in summer but not winter?

Accepted Answer

Summer heat significantly increases your cooling system's workload. At 100°F ambient temperature, your system works 40% harder than at 70°F. Combined with air conditioning use, stop-and-go traffic, and reduced airflow, summer conditions can push even healthy cooling systems beyond their capacity.

Question 5

How much does cooling system maintenance cost compared to repairs?

Accepted Answer

Preventive cooling system maintenance typically costs $300-500 annually, while major cooling system failures average $2,500-6,000 in repairs. We've calculated that every dollar spent on preventive maintenance saves an average of $4.50 in repair costs, making regular maintenance one of the best investments you can make.

Engine Repairs

Engine Cooling System: Maintenance and Repair Guide

How to Extend Your Engine Life Beyond 200,000 Miles

How to Decode Engine Error Codes: A Complete Guide