Checking the Cooling System Operation

Many serious engine malfunctions are related to cooling system faults. If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, its operation and service life are also directly related to the operation of the cooling system.

The cooling system must be inspected with the engine cold, so it is best to perform the inspection before the first drive of the day or no sooner than three hours after the engine has been shut off.

INSPECTION

1. Slowly remove the radiator cap, taking care in case the engine has not fully cooled. Thoroughly clean the cap inside and outside with clean water. Also flush the radiator filler neck. Signs of corrosion in the filler neck indicate that the coolant should be replaced. The coolant inside the radiator should be relatively clean and transparent. If it has a brownish color, drain the system and refill it with new coolant.
2. Thoroughly inspect the radiator hoses, as well as the heater hoses, which have a smaller diameter. Check the cooling system hoses along their entire length and replace any cracked, swollen, or worn hose. Cracks are easier to detect by squeezing the hose by hand. Pay particular attention to the clamps securing the hoses to the cooling system components. These clamps can cut or puncture the hoses, causing coolant leakage.
3. Make sure all hose connections are securely fastened. Coolant leaks usually appear as white or rust-colored deposits in the area of the seal failure. If your vehicle uses wire-type clamps, it may be advisable to replace them with screw-type clamps.
4. Using compressed air or a soft brush, clean the front of the radiator (and the air conditioning condenser, where equipped). Remove all insects, leaves, and other foreign objects from the radiator fins. Be very careful not to damage the fins or cut your fingers on them.
5. If the coolant level constantly drops and you find no leaks, perform a pressure test of the radiator cap and the entire cooling system.