What is an Engine Cooling System?

Your car would quickly overheat without the cooling system. The system uses a coolant mixture (also known as anti-freeze) as a medium to remove heat from the engine. Here’s how it works: first, the water pump circulates coolant through passages in the engine. Then, when operating conditions are correct, the thermostat opens, allowing coolant to flow through hoses to the radiator. The radiator is located behind the car’s grille. Cool air is forced across the unit as the car is traveling down the road. At a stand-still and at low speeds, a supplemental fan provides airflow. In both scenarios, the cool air removes heat from the coolant inside the radiator, lowering the fluid’s temperature before it re-enters the engine.  Hot coolant also helps keep your car warm on cold days. The fluid flows through a radiator-style device called the heater core. A motorized fan blows air across the core to warm your car’s interior.