Now that the cooler weather is already in full swing here for us, you may be thinking that your vehicle is safe from any overheating issues. In fact, your vehicle can overheat any time of the year, and a poorly maintained cooling system can actually cause your vehicle to get too cold to run during freezing temperatures. This is especially true if your vehicle is in need of a radiator service. This maintenance task typically only needs to be performed every 30,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first, but is an important part of keeping your cooling system running right.
How Does a Cooling System Work?
A properly functioning engine cooling system circulates coolant, also called antifreeze, through the engine and radiator. This helps to reduce heat levels, lubricate the water pump, and protect against corrosion. Your vehicle even uses the cooling system to heat the passenger cabin.
Much like the other fluids in your vehicle, coolant wears and becomes dirty over time. When this happens, the systems can’t work as efficiently to cool your engine. Eventually, this can lead to the temperature of your engine getting hot enough to potentially damage itself. Having your engine cooling system properly maintained can help optimize the performance and longevity of your engine.
How Do You Know When You Need A Radiator Flush?
There are a few different signs that indicate you may need a radiator flush. If your car overheats, for example, it often means that there is either a leak in your coolant system or that the coolant is contaminated in some way. If your coolant level seems relatively full even though your engine has overheated, it is probably a good idea to flush the radiator.
Other signs that an immediate radiator flush is necessary includes coolant leaking underneath your car, a grinding or knocking engine noise, visible debris in your coolant and steam or an odd smell rising from your hood.
What is a Radiator Service?
Based on your manufacturer’s recommendations and/or test results, Jiffy Lube® removes used engine coolant, and replaces it with coolant that meets or exceeds your manufacturer’s specifications. Then we make sure that the used coolant is properly disposed of.
Radiator flushes may be a necessary task, but that doesn’t mean they’re expensive! Your neighborhood Chicagoland Jiffy Lube® can perform this task for you at a reasonable cost anytime you’re ready to have it done. Stop by anytime, no appointment necessary!
Jiffy Lube® recommends following manufacturer recommendations, where applicable, for maintenance schedules and service intervals.
Not all services are offered at each Jiffy Lube® location. Please check with your local Jiffy Lube® service center for specific services offered.