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One thing most car owners hope they don't have to deal with is an unexpected issue with their vehicles. When an automotive system fails, it offers some signs and symptoms. One of these signs is the smell of maple syrup when you enter the car and turn on the engine. Other people describe the smell as butterscotch or cinnamon.
While it has a pleasant, sweet smell, it doesn't indicate anything sweet about your car. In fact, that sweet smell that might get you to think that someone spilled syrup in your car means that you have a leaking coolant.
What is a Coolant?
Car coolant, also known as antifreeze, prevents engine overheating. It also acts as grease, preventing friction between the engine's moving parts, which alleviates premature wear-n-tear of these components, including the water pump, cylinder and piston timing, and the head gasket.
The coolant effectively controls engine temperatures by dissipating the heat and adds an antifreeze to the motor, ensuring the engine operates at optimum performance level. Fuel combustion in the engine produces the energy required to move the car. Excess energy is removed through the exhaust system while the rest remain in the engine block. Combustion occurs at about 2000 degrees Fahrenheit, and aluminum (which is the material used in engine construction) melts at about 1,225 degrees Fahrenheit. With decreasing levels of coolant, the engine fails. Therefore, it would help if you had sufficient coolant to protect the engine by controlling the temperatures.
Why it's Critical to Repair Radiator or Coolant Leaks
The first thing you need to do when you notice the smell of syrup in your car is to contact a professional automotive technician to repair the leak. That's critical because driving a car with a radiator leak can cause serious engine damages. Depending on the extent of damage, the mechanic can repair the problem or replace the radiator entirely. Radiator replacements are costly, and it would be best if you repaired the small leak before it develops into something complicated.
Another apparent danger of driving with a leaking radiator is that it further damages the motor. The internal engine components fail, and you'll soon have to replace the engine, compounding your car maintenance budget.
If you need a coolant leak repair, contact our trusted and reliable automotive care center today!