The cooling system in your car is made up of a variety of belts and hoses. The belts deliver power to your alternator, water pump, and A/C compressor. If a belt breaks, fails, or somehow becomes loose, it will not be able to power the part to which it is connected. That can potentially cause your vehicle to overheat.

The hoses transport coolant (a mixture of water and anti-freeze) to and from your engine to your radiator. Cool air drawn across the coolant in the radiator dissipates heat, allowing cool coolant to return to the engine where it can absorb more heat. Without coolant, engine temperature would increase to the point of overheating.

When you drive during the summer, the temperature under the hood can approach 300 degrees Fahrenheit. That intense heat stresses the belts and hoses of your cooling system and can cause them to break or rupture. If you’re driving under stressful circumstances – for example, pulling a heavy load up a steep hill – it is much easier for your engine to overheat.

Visit your dealership’s service center or your local repair garage, and have a mechanic look at your car’s belts and hoses. If any of them are worn, have them replaced. If you know what to look for, you can actually inspect the belts and hoses at home. However, there’s a chance that you might overlook a crack, small fissure, or any signs of extreme wear that a trained eye will readily see. It may cost a few dollars, but it is far cheaper than repairing or replacing a damaged engine. While at the garage, have your mechanic check your coolant level and condition. Inadequate coolant levels or old, worn out coolant can be a signal of a bigger problem or at the very least can compromise the performance of your cooling system.

Keep your eyes on your vehicle’s temperature gauge while driving. It can spike without warning, especially on hot days. If you see it rising, turn your A/C off, roll down your windows, and activate the heater. It may sound counterintuitive, but having the heater on will help lower the temperature around the engine. If you’re driving in stressful conditions (up steep hills, in extreme heat, etc.), turn your A/C off.

Even though automobiles today are designed to better withstand heat, they’re still susceptible. Fortunately, with a little maintenance, you can help your car stay cool and preserve the life of your engine.