As summer temperatures rise in Bellingham and across the Pacific Northwest, your vehicle’s cooling system becomes more critical than ever. A properly functioning cooling system helps your engine stay within a safe temperature range and prevents overheating—one of the most common causes of summer breakdowns.

🔧 Why Overheating Happens

Your car’s engine generates a lot of heat, and it’s your cooling system’s job to manage that. Coolant (also known as antifreeze) circulates through the engine, absorbing heat and dispersing it through the radiator. But over time, coolant degrades and can become contaminated, reducing its effectiveness and putting your engine at risk.

🚨 Signs Your Vehicle Might Be at Risk:

• Rising engine temperature on your dash gauge
• Steam or a sweet smell coming from the hood
• Low coolant levels or puddles under your vehicle
• Your heater stops working (yes, it’s connected!)

🔁 The Solution: Coolant Flush & System Inspection

A coolant flush removes old, degraded fluid and replaces it with fresh coolant that can better protect your engine. At Bellingham Automotive, we also inspect hoses, the radiator, thermostat, and water pump to catch any other issues before they leave you stranded.

🚗 Pro Tip from Our Technicians:

Keep an eye on your temperature gauge, especially during long drives, idling in traffic, or towing in hot weather. If it creeps into the red zone, pull over and turn the engine off ASAP—overheating can cause serious damage in seconds.

🧰 Stay Cool All Summer Long

Whether you’re planning a road trip or just commuting around town, make sure your vehicle is ready to handle the heat. Our ASE-certified technicians are here to help you stay safe and comfortable behind the wheel.

📞 Call us today or schedule your appointment online to get your cooling system inspected before the heat hits hard.