AAA Reports That Motor Oil is Vehicle's Third Cooling System

MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 8, 2003 -- During AAA's Car Care Month in October, AAA reminds motorists their vehicles actually have three cooling systems.

"Vehicles have an air-conditioning system and an engine cooling system composed of a water pump, radiator and liquid coolant," says Gary Klopp, Director of AAA Automotive Services. "Many motorists might be surprised to learn that oil also plays an important role in keeping their vehicle cool."

Heat that builds up in moving parts is reduced as oil makes its routine journey through the engine. The air passing under a moving vehicle cools the oil in its pan before recirculation.

The lower the oil level, the hotter and harder the remaining oil has to work. Keeping the level at the "full" mark ensures proper lubrication and cooling. Low oil levels are a contributing cause of engine overheating that occurs in millions of vehicles each summer.

Inspecting the oil level in a vehicle engine is easy. Simply remove the engine's oil dip stick when the engine is off and has not been running for an extended period. Next, check to see if oil is coating the dip stick up to the "full" level. Oil needs to be added or changed if the oil coating is below this level.

In the familiar cooling system, the same mixture that prevents freeze-ups in winter will prevent corrosion build-up in the summer -- a major cause of radiator plugging and overheating. The amount of liquid in the cooling system can be checked by inspecting the cooling system overflow bottle. The proper 50-50 mixture of ethylene glycol (check your owner's manual since not all manufacturers use this base) and water, commonly called antifreeze, can be checked with a simple test device available at auto part stores.

AAA recommends that consumers who are uncomfortable or unsure about maintaining their vehicle's cooling system seek professional assistance from a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility. AAA inspects thousands of vehicle repair businesses nationwide and, to receive approval, these shops must meet requirements that include customer satisfaction and trained technicians, as well as proper tools and equipment. These shops also must agree to provide warranties and estimates that help protect consumers from unnecessary, incomplete or poorly performed repairs.

To locate a AAA-approved repair shop, contact your local AAA club or visit www.aaa.com . Approved shops are required to prominently display their affiliation with AAA on the exterior of their business.