Keeping your Mercedes or BMW running well means being diligent and alert to any potentially serious problem with the cooling system. This system works to keep your engine working within a precise temperature range and also keeps the metals from melting and fusing.
The cooling system is made of a number of integral parts working together to keep things running smoothly. The entire system will fail to work if even one component is broken or damaged. Here is a list of some of the most important things you should do to keep the cooling system working smoothly
In general, the cooling system shouldn't lose any fluid, but sometimes evaporation may cause the amount of liquid to decrease, especially in hot climates. If your radiator cap is loose or defective, this can also cause your car to lose fluid. These types of fluid losses should be very small and gradual, and you shouldn't have to add fluid very often.
Be sure to replace the coolant with one that is specifically designed for your vehicle. Conventional coolant may not be compatible with high-end German cars such as Mercedes vehicles.
If you find yourself adding a significant amount of coolant frequently, then you probably have a leak. Most of the time, leaks are easily spotted because you will see a fluid spot directly under the location of the problem area when you park.
However, some leaks, such as a leaking water pump or head gasket, may not be as easily noticeable or traceable. In those cases, you will likely hear a rattling noise or see white smoke or steam coming from the tailpipe rather than see a leak on the ground.
Your BMW or Mercedes should maintain a near-constant temperature in all operating conditions. If you find that your temperature gauge frequently rises or shows a consistently high temperature, then you likely have a problem.
The problem could be something as small as a faulty thermostat or temperature sensor, or it could be something bigger, like a blocked radiator or a bad water pump. You need to give these issues immediate attention to eliminate the chance of engine damage.
In order to spot and fix problems early before they become serious, do a regular inspection of your fan (or fans), belts and hoses on a regular basis. Try doing a simple look-over every time you check the oil and fluid levels.
Look for cracks and chips in the fans that could indicate they are breaking apart, and listen for a rattling noise that may indicate a worn bearing. Belts should not be frayed or have pieces missing. Hoses should feel solid to the touch and not be bulging at the clamps. Those clamps should also be solid and free of rust.
To keep your cooling system in top condition, you must follow your manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. This means having the fluid flushed and changed and the entire system checked for leaks and other problems. When you wait too long to have this service, rust and contaminants build up and cause other parts to wear down faster or become plugged. Regular maintenance is also a good way to have another set of eyes check over the system for leaks and other problems.
Your cooling system is an important part of your vehicle, and it's important that you keep this system in top shape so that you can continue having trouble-free driving. If you experience a coolant-related problem or just need routine service, contact
Chris' Car Care. We specialize in working on European models such as Mercedes and BMW. With our help, you can get back on the road and enjoy your vehicle without worry.