Why is the vehicle consuming coolant?
2 Answers
Vehicle coolant consumption is caused by water shortage, poor cooling fan performance, or radiator inefficiency. Inspection methods: 1. Check the water tank level and regularly wipe the tank walls to prevent dust blockage; 2. When adding water to the tank, pay attention to the engine temperature—do not open the filler cap on the cooling fan when the vehicle is overheated; 3. Do not overfill when adding water; 4. In summer, try to use soft water, which includes low-hardness natural mineral water, mountain spring water, or glacial snow water; 5. In winter, replace it with coolant in time to prevent the water tank from freezing. Coolant helps the engine cooling system resist corrosion and rust, ensuring the engine operates normally within the proper temperature range.
I think if a vehicle is burning coolant, it's mostly due to internal engine problems. Just like what I encountered last year, the cylinder head gasket seal failed, coolant leaked in and burned, resulting in white smoke from the exhaust pipe, or the water pump leaked and evaporated. There are quite a few reasons: cracks in the cylinder head, loose cooling system connections, or aging and ruptured hoses. Pay attention to coolant level changes during daily driving. If you notice the level dropping rapidly or detect unusual odors, get it checked immediately. Don't delay—repairing and replacing parts might cost a few hundred dollars, but if the engine overheats and gets damaged, you could be looking at thousands in repairs. I recommend checking for bubbles under the radiator cap weekly and performing regular maintenance to prevent issues before they arise.
