Your car’s cooling system is essential for maintaining engine temperature and preventing overheating. A coolant leak can disrupt this system, leading to serious engine damage if not addressed promptly. At Absolut Autoworks, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Sterling, VA area. Here are five warning signs that may indicate your car has a coolant leak. Overheating Engine One of the most common signs of a coolant leak is an overheating engine. Coolant circulates through the engine to absorb excess heat and prevent damage to critical components. If there’s a leak, the coolant level drops, reducing its ability to regulate temperature. An overheating engine is a clear indication that your cooling system needs immediate attention. Low Coolant Levels Regularly checking your coolant reservoir is an essential part of car maintenance. If you notice that the coolant level is consistently low despite topping it off, there’s likely a leak in the system. Even a small leak can gradually drain the coolant, making it important to address the issue before it worsens. For safety reasons, remember to only check/add coolant after your engine has cooled down. Visible Puddles or Stains A telltale sign of a coolant leak is the presence of puddles or stains under your car. Coolant is commonly green, orange, or pink (yours may be a different color) and has a sweet smell. If you notice this type of liquid collecting beneath your vehicle, it’s a strong indication that there’s a leak in the system. Have your car inspected to locate and fix the source of the leak. Sweet Smell Inside or Around the Car Coolant contains ethylene glycol, which has a distinctive sweet smell. If you notice this odor inside your vehicle or around the engine bay, it may indicate a leak. Ignoring this smell can lead to further coolant loss and potential damage to your engine. Steam Coming from the Hood Steam rising from under the hood is a sign that the engine is overheating, often caused by a lack of coolant. This situation is not only a sign of a leak but also a serious safety hazard. If you see steam while driving, pull over safely, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool before attempting to inspect or address the issue. Cooling System Repair in Sterling, VA For auto repair in Sterling, VA and the surrounding area, contact Absolut Autoworks at  703-437-1607  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your car’s suspension system is essential for providing a smooth and controlled ride. It absorbs shocks from the road and helps ensure stability while driving. When the suspension is compromised, it can affect your vehicle's performance and safety. At Absolut Autoworks, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Sterling, VA area. Here are five warning signs of a suspension problem. Excessive Bouncing After Hitting Bumps One of the most noticeable signs of suspension trouble is excessive bouncing when driving over bumps or potholes. Your suspension system is designed to absorb these impacts, but if components like shocks or struts are worn out, your car will struggle to stabilize. This results in a bumpy, uncomfortable ride. Uneven Tire Wear If you notice that your tires are wearing unevenly, it could indicate a problem with your suspension system. A malfunctioning suspension can affect the distribution of weight across the tires, causing some areas to bear more pressure than others. Left unaddressed, uneven tire wear can lead to reduced traction and increased risk of blowouts. Pulling to One Side While Driving When your car pulls to one side, it might not just be an alignment issue. A damaged suspension system can also cause this problem by unevenly distributing weight. Pulling to one side compromises your control of the vehicle, making it crucial to have the issue inspected and repaired promptly. Clunking or Squeaking Noises Unusual noises coming from your car’s suspension system—such as clunking, squeaking, or creaking sounds—are often a sign of trouble. These noises can occur when components like bushings, ball joints, or control arms are failing. Ignoring these sounds may lead to further deterioration. Nose-Diving When Braking If your car’s front end dips significantly when you apply the brakes, it’s a sign that your suspension system isn’t functioning correctly. This issue, often caused by worn shocks or struts, can reduce your stopping power and increase the risk of accidents. Prompt attention to this problem is important for maintaining safe braking performance. Suspension Repair in Sterling, VA When you need auto repair in Sterling, VA and the surrounding area, contact Absolut Autoworks at  703-437-1607  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!