The cooling system of a vehicle is a vital part of the engine’s performance. Its job is to remove excess heat from the engine, keep it operating at the most efficient temperature, and allow it to reach its ideal operational temperature in the shortest time possible.

An overheated engine is a severe problem. If you’re driving and the temperature gauge shoots up and stays there for any length of time, pull over immediately and have the car towed.

Cooling system components include a radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, an overflow tank, water, coolant, and a series of connecting pipes. The system works by directing fluid over the hottest parts of your engine (the cylinder heads and valves) and redirecting the heated fluid out to the radiator, where the heat gets dissipated into the cooler atmosphere. The whole process then repeats.

The radiator is located just behind the front grille and is usually made of aluminium. It consists of a series of tubes attached to many little metal fins. These fins increase the surface area of the radiator to cool the heated fluid more quickly. An electric cooling fan is activated on very hot days or when the vehicle is idling for a long period of time.

The system also includes a thermostat, which senses temperature and controls fluid flow within the system and a plastic overflow tank, which serves as a reservoir for excess coolant (remember, heat expands things).

The fluid within your car’s cooling system contains water and coolant, which consists of a green fluid containing ethylene glycol. This chemical extends the freezing and boiling point of water and also inhibits rust.

Never open the radiator cap when the engine is still warm. Cooling systems are under extreme pressure and the boiling hot contents may spurt out if you open the cap. Wait until the engine is cold to the touch.

One sign that problems are at hand is when your car engine is warmer than usual. Check if there are any leaks of greenish fluid on the ground underneath your car. You may also hear a whistling sound or a strong smell of coolant while driving.

Next, open the bonnet and inspect all radiator hoses connected to the cooling system for leaks. Check the water pump for water stains. Look out for excessive rust. While some rusting is fairly common on the bottom of the radiator or on the housing of water pumps, a lot of rusty metal flakes or chips may indicate serious corrosion.

Look inside the engine compartment, crankcase and radiator for a foamy beige residue or fluid comprising a mixture of oil and engine coolant. That may indicate a worn or cracked head gasket. Make sure the radiator cap is well fitted with no signs of damage either.