Heat-Producing Engines Still Need Cold Weather Protection

If it is not maintained properly, a car engine can overheat just as easily in the winter months as during the summer.

To avoid problems, Gates engineers advise motorists to place additional emphasis on preventive maintenance of the cooling system this fall.

Engine Coolant

Ask your service technician to check the condition of the liquid coolant. The proper amount and mixture of water and antifreeze will help prevent overheating in the summer and provide freezing protection down to -34°F, which is sufficient for most geographic areas this winter.

Have the coolant level checked every six months. The cooling system should be drained and back-flushed, and new coolant should be added every two years. By neglecting this replacement cycle, the coolant may not protect the engine from damaging rust and corrosion.

Coolant Hoses

Coolant hoses are a very important part of the total cooling system. They are the fluid connectors between the engine, the radiator and heater. Most cars have a handful of hoses.

Since hoses are so vital to safe engine operation, Gates engineers recommend replacing them if they are over four years old or if they feel soft at the ends.

They can be conveniently replaced when it’s time to flush the cooling system and install new coolant.