Knowing how to detect an issue with your car can ensure your car doesn't suffer any serious damages. Learn more about how you can detect an issue in your cooling system with these tips.

How to Detect an Issue in Your Cooling System

There are many parts in your car working together to keep your car running smoothly. If one of the systems in your car has an issue that is keeping it from working efficiently, this can mean trouble for your entire car. To figure out if there is an issue in your car's cooling system, loo out for these signs that mean trouble.

Rising Temperatures

Your car's dashboard has a temperature gauge that shows you how hot things are getting under the hood. You may notice that it stays all the way to the left when you first turn on your car and it makes its way to the center as the engine gets warmer. If you notice the needle moving past its usual stopping point in the middle, this can mean that your cooling system is having trouble regulating temperatures under the hood. This can be the result of a number of different things, but it's worth getting this checked out by a professional before your car overheats.

Coolant Light

Another thing to look out for on your car's dashboard is your coolant light. If this lights up then your car is trying to let you know that you're running low on this essential fluid. Your cooling system relies on this fluid in order to keep things at the ideal operating temperature, so not enough of it can lead to your engine overheating. Don't ignore this light and instead pull over to check your radiator. If you're running low, top off your coolant and look for a leak.

Leaking Coolant

Identifying a coolant leak isn't too hard since this fluid is hard to miss. Its bright green color makes it hard to mistake this fluid for any other in your car. Look for a bright green puddle or even drops under your car since these are clear signs of a leak. Pop open your hood and check this area for green fluid as well. A leak can lead to low levels of coolant and topping it off will only be a temporary fix, so don't put off taking your car into your mechanic. Another fluid to keep track of is your motor oil. To keep your engine at its best it's not enough to simply have enough motor oil, you also have to use a quality oil. Getting regular synthetic oil changes is a good start. To find the perfect oil for your car, contact  AMSOIL Dealer Dwight Smith at (702) 561-3706. They'll be happy to help you find a great oil like AMSOIL's Signature Series 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil. You can find more quality products like this in their online shop.

Steaming Hood

If you notice white smoke coming out from under your hood while driving, pull over immediately. Smoke should never be ignored because it's a sign of serious trouble. It's very likely that your engine is overheating, so pull over, turn off your engine, and let everything cool down before touching anything. Once things are cool, pop open your hood and let everything air out so that your car can cool down completely. Once things are no longer hot to the touch, check on your coolant level. If you're running very low, top it off so that you can make it to your mechanic or call a tow truck.

White Exhaust Smoke

White smoke coming out of your exhaust pipe is another type of smoke that can be pointing to a cooling system issue. Thick white smoke is often the result of coolant leaking internally and burning in the combustion chamber. Internal leaks are harder to detect so definitely keep an eye out for this sign. It's also a good idea to check on your coolant level regularly. If you notice that it's often lower than it should be or if you notice that the fluid disappears faster than normal, this can be the result of a leak, internal or external. Before this turns into an issue, get your car checked by a professional.

Is It Time for Your Next Synthetic Oil Change in Ann Arbor?

Keep your car in great shape this year with the help of synthetic oil changes in Ann Arbor. To find a great oil for your car, contact AMSOIL Dealer, Dwight Smith at (702) 561-3706. They'll b happy to give you the personalized service you need to keep your car running smoothly.