Cooling Systems

A vehicle’s cooling system removes excess heat from the engine, preventing overheating and major engine issues. In a hot environment such as Australia, your cooling system is one of the most important systems in your car, so regular servicing helps maintain reliability and avoid costly repairs.

Cooling System Repairs

The team at Burwood Automotive and Exhaust will carefully examine and test each part of your cooling system and point out any areas that require work or replacement components.

How the Cooling System Works

Not all the energy generated by your engine becomes useful mechanical energy. Much of it becomes heat. Some heat exits through the exhaust, but the rest stays in the engine. The cooling system moves coolant through the engine, where it absorbs heat, then passes that coolant through the radiator so the heat can be transferred to the surrounding air. The system needs enough capacity to keep the engine at the correct temperature in both extreme heat and cold, and under load such as towing.

Main Cooling System Components

Radiator

Coolant that has passed through the engine is pumped through radiator tubes, cooled down, and continually recirculated.

Radiator Hoses and Housings

Rubber hoses move coolant from one part of the system to another. They need regular inspection and replacement before they become brittle or cracked.

Water Pump

The water pump circulates coolant through the system. It is commonly driven by a belt or, in some vehicles, the timing belt. It needs regular inspection for corrosion, seal leaks, and bearing wear.

Thermostat

The thermostat controls coolant flow so the engine maintains the correct operating temperature. A failed thermostat can cause overheating, poor fuel economy, or increased engine wear.

Electric Cooling Fan

The cooling fan draws air through the radiator when the vehicle is not moving fast enough to do it naturally, such as in traffic or when the air conditioning is on.

Warning Signs

• Engine overheating or temperature gauge running hot
• Greenish or brownish coolant puddles under the car
• Coolant loss, steam, or poor heater performance