A coolant leak in your vehicle can lead to serious engine problems if left unaddressed. The cooling system is essential for regulating your engine’s temperature, preventing it from overheating. Detecting a coolant leak early can help you avoid costly repairs. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert coolant leak repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are four signs that your vehicle may have a coolant leak.

Low Coolant Levels 

One of the most obvious signs of a coolant leak is when your coolant levels keep dropping. Make sure to check your coolant reservoir regularly and top off the coolant as needed until the leak is fixed. But remember that, for safety reasons, you should always wait until your engine has cooled down before you check/add coolant.

Overheating Engine 

If your engine is running hotter than usual or overheating altogether, a coolant leak could be to blame. The coolant is vital for absorbing the heat produced by the engine and dissipating it through the radiator. Without enough coolant, the engine’s temperature will rise quickly, leading to potential damage. If your engine temperature gauge is creeping into the red zone or the overheating light on your dashboard illuminates, a coolant leak could be the culprit.

Visible Puddles Under Your Vehicle 

A more obvious sign of a coolant leak is seeing puddles of coolant underneath your vehicle after it’s been parked for a while. Coolant is commonly green, yellow, pink, or orange (yours might be a different color), and has a slightly sweet smell. If you notice such a liquid pooling under your car, it's likely from a leak in the cooling system. In this case, it’s important to get your car checked immediately to prevent further damage.

White Smoke from the Exhaust 

White smoke coming from your vehicle’s exhaust pipe can be another indication of a coolant leak. This could mean that coolant is leaking into the engine itself, often due to a blown head gasket. This is a serious issue that requires prompt attention.

Cooling System Repair in Birmingham, AL

When you need auto repair in Birmingham and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!