Buick GMC Coolant Service in Elmhurst, IL
Travels on Dwight D. Eisenhower Expressway can become bothersome if your car has poor coolant. Fortunately, there’s a way for you to avoid problems with the vital liquid, and our Al Piemonte Buick GMC guide has the answers you’re looking for.
The Purpose of Coolant
In addition to engine oil, the coolant is meant to keep the powertrain at a steady temperature while the car runs. Your system will pull the fluid from a reservoir and cycle it through durable rubber tubes that pass through the engine. After that, the coolant leaves the powertrain and makes its way to the radiator to be cooled. While you’re cruising in the Elmhurst area or any other city, the aerodynamics from driving will lower the temperature of the coolant. When you’re idling, a fan will spin behind the radiator, generating wind that decreases the heat of this substance. Next, the coolant is flows through the system again at a steady temperature, and the process continues.
When Should the Coolant Be Changed?
The timeline for coolant varies, but the common lifespan is 30,000 miles or two years. Every vehicle is different, so be sure to check the Owner’s Manual. For instance, the duration of coolant in a GMC Sierra 1500 may be different than in a Buick Enclave. The age of your car is also an important factor. Drivers who have a model that was made in the 2000s or later years likely have organic acid technology coolant, which is a version that’s less likely to corrode within 24 months. Ultimately, the coolant quality depends on the brand that’s in your car. To identify the grade of the fluid, look at the color. The greenish type is typically the cost-effective version. Although this is a practical variant, some drivers opt for the gold-colored coolant because of its 100,000-mile/5-year life cycle. For more information, visit our Service Center.
Warning Signs
Did you notice a sweet smell coming from your vents while driving a friend to the Chicago O’Hare International Airport? Strange aromas coming through the climate control system are a sign that your coolant is getting old. The aged coolant becomes corrosive over time, which can lead to leaks in parts like the radiator and water pump. The fluid’s acidity breaks down plastic, rubber, and organic compounds, causing seepage. If it’s been close to two years, consider having the coolant flushed and swapped with a fresh batch. Doing so will allow you to reduce the risk of a drop in fuel economy. Additionally, you could avoid sudden engine temperature increases, which often lead to a mechanical breakdown. If you need this task done, schedule an appointment on our website.
