Your car's cooling system is essential for keeping the engine running at the right temperature. If there's a coolant leak, the engine could overheat, potentially leading to significant damage. It's important to be aware of the warning signs so you can address a coolant leak before it causes major issues. At Jimmy’s Top Tech Auto, our local mechanics provide expert coolant leak detection and repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here are five signs that your vehicle might have a coolant leak.

Visible Coolant Pooling Under the Vehicle

One of the most obvious signs of a coolant leak is a puddle of fluid beneath your car. Coolant is commonly green, pink, or orange (yours might be a different color) and has a sweet smell. If you notice this fluid accumulating under your vehicle, there's a strong chance that your car is leaking coolant. It's important to get this checked out promptly to avoid engine overheating.

Overheating Engine

An overheating engine is another sign of a coolant leak. Coolant is responsible for absorbing heat from the engine and keeping it within a safe operating range. If there’s a leak, the coolant level may become too low, causing the engine to overheat. If you notice the temperature gauge rising into the red zone, it's crucial to pull over to a safe location and shut off the engine to prevent escalating trouble.

Low Coolant Level

If you regularly need to top off your coolant, there may be a leak somewhere in the system. While checking your coolant level, be sure to do it when the engine is cool to avoid burns from the hot fluid. If you notice the coolant level dropping without explanation, have your vehicle inspected for leaks.

Sweet Smell from the Engine Bay

If you notice a sweet, syrupy smell coming from the engine bay, it could indicate that coolant is leaking. This odor often comes from coolant leaking onto hot engine components, where it burns off.

White Exhaust Smoke

Coolant leaking into the combustion chamber can cause white smoke to come from your exhaust. This often points to a blown head gasket. If you see white exhaust smoke, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible.

Cooling System Repair in Austin, TX

When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact Jimmy’s Top Tech Auto at (512) 768-2965. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!