Coolant plays a critical role in maintaining your vehicle's engine temperature. A coolant leak can lead to serious engine problems if not addressed promptly. At Austin Auto Repair, our local mechanics are experts at identifying and fixing coolant leaks. Here’s a look at five warning signs that your vehicle is leaking coolant. 

Visible Puddle Under the Car

One of the most obvious signs of a coolant leak is a visible puddle under your car. Coolant is commonly a bright green or orange color (yours could be a different color) with a sweet smell. If you notice a puddle of brightly colored liquid under your vehicle, it’s important to investigate further to determine if it’s coolant.

Overheating Engine

An overheating engine is a common symptom of a coolant leak. Without enough coolant circulating through the engine, it can’t maintain the optimal temperature, leading to overheating. If your temperature gauge reads higher than normal or your warning light comes on, a coolant leak could be the culprit.

Low Coolant Levels

Regularly checking your coolant level is a good maintenance practice. If you find that your coolant levels are consistently low, despite topping it off, it’s likely that you have a leak. Pay attention to the rate at which the coolant level drops, as a rapid decrease can indicate a more significant leak. To prevent injury, you should only check/add coolant after the engine has cooled down.

Sweet Smell from the Engine Bay

Coolant has a distinct, sweet smell due to its ethylene glycol content. If you detect a sweet odor coming from your engine bay or inside the cabin, it could be a sign of a coolant leak. 

White Smoke from the Exhaust

If coolant leaks into the combustion chamber, it burns and produces white smoke. This is a serious issue that can damage your engine and should be addressed immediately. With this symptom, you could be dealing with a blown head gasket.

Cooling System Repair in Austin, TX

For auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact Austin Auto Repair at 512-865-6217. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!