Coolant helps regulate your engine’s temperature, preventing it from overheating. Detecting a coolant leak early can save you from costly repairs and potential engine damage. At Automotive Repair Specialist, we provide expert coolant leak detection and repair in the greater Nampa, ID area. Here are five signs that your vehicle might have a coolant leak:

Low Coolant Levels

One of the most obvious signs of a coolant leak is a low coolant level in the reservoir. Regularly check your coolant level and top it off if needed. If you notice that the coolant level is consistently dropping, even after refilling, it’s an indication that you have a leak. Keep in mind that, for safety reasons, you should only check/add coolant when the engine is cool.

Puddles Under Your Vehicle

If you see a green, orange, or pinkish liquid pooling under your vehicle, there’s a good chance it's coolant (though yours could be another color). Coolant leaks can occur in several places, such as the radiator, hoses, or water pump. 

Engine Overheating

An overheating engine is a critical sign of a coolant leak. The coolant’s primary function is to keep the engine at a stable temperature. If there’s a leak, the engine can overheat due to insufficient cooling. An overheating engine can lead to serious damage, including a warped cylinder head. Always keep an eye on your temperature gauge while driving.

White Exhaust Smoke

If coolant is leaking internally, it can result in white smoke coming from your exhaust. This could be an indication of a blown head gasket.

Sweet Smell Inside or Outside the Vehicle

Coolant has a distinctive sweet smell due to the ethylene glycol it contains. If you detect a sweet, syrupy odor inside or outside your vehicle, it could indicate a coolant leak. Pay close attention if you smell this odor while driving or after turning off the engine, as it could mean that coolant is leaking onto a hot surface and evaporating.

Cooling System Repair in Nampa, ID

For auto repair in Nampa and the surrounding area, contact Automotive Repair Specialist at 208-461-1330. At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!