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Behind the impeccable performance of the Maserati vehicles is a precisely engineered and high-output engine and powertrain. The function of these components generates immense heat, and managing this heat is highly crucial. That’s why Maserati vehicles possess a state-of-the-art cooling system.
However, these components are not immune to malfunctions. For a vehicle as sophisticated as Maserati, a minor system fault holds the potential to escalate and become a catastrophic failure. The primary impact of a cooling system malfunction is the overheating of the engine chamber and the attached cooling system.
Factors Behind the Overheating of the Maserati Cooling System
Coolant Issues
The coolant/antifreeze is the fluid that carries the heat from the engine chamber and dissipates it outside. Often, the coolant level decreases due to reasons such as irregular coolant refilling, coolant leaks in pipes, or coolant contamination. This causes the heat transfer process to slow down or even come to a complete halt. This results in engine overheating and component damage.
Failing Water Pump
The water pump in the cooling system pumps the coolant through the cooling pipes throughout the engine and turbocharger. This enables the cooling of the engine and its components when the water pump fails due to impeller damage, worn bearings, or an electrical issue; the coolant circulation halts, causing the cooling to cease. This results in overheating.
Thermostat Damage
The thermostat controls the flow of the coolant, in and out of the engine chamber. This helps the vehicle attain optimal cooling. If the thermostat gets damaged, the flow stops as it closes the valve. This causes overheating. On the other hand, if it stays open due to damage, the engine won’t attain optimal heat for functioning.
Radiator Issue
The radiator is the component that facilitates the heat exchange between the coolant and the outside environment. External blockage, internal clogging, leaks, a faulty cooling fan, and damaged hoses can cause the radiator to fail, halting the heat exchange process and leading to overheating in the engine.
Impact of Overheating
- When the engine temperature increases, the engine control unit (ECU) drops the vehicle into limp mode, where the engine’s performance decreases significantly. This is done to reduce the heat generated by lowering the engine’s function.
- When exposed to intense heat, the cylinder heads in the engine become wrapped, as they are made of aluminum.
- Extreme heat can cause the head gasket of the engine to blow, leading to compression loss and coolant contamination in the engine oil.
- In extreme cases, the engine can face catastrophic failure and lose its function.
- High temperature gauge readings, a check engine light, a sweet or syrupy smell, steam from the hood, green, pink, or blue fluid puddles under the vehicle, and poor AC performance are early signs of a cooling system malfunction in Maserati.
Fixing Maserati’s Overheating Cooling System
The repair process has two steps: diagnosis and repair.
Diagnostic Inspection
Sophisticated vehicles, such as Maserati, when they experience a cooling system malfunction, are connected to a brand-specific diagnostic scanner. The scan tool then retrieves the fault code and analyzes it to pinpoint the origin of the damage. More specific pressure testing is done if there is an indication of leakage in the system. Ultimately, component-specific tests are conducted to determine the origin and cause of the damage.
Repair Process
According to the data received from the scanning tool, the Maserati is treated for specific damage. If leakages are the primary cause, the leaks are sealed. In extreme cases, pipes and valves are replaced. After the repair, the coolant is refilled to compensate for the leaked fluid.
Radiator, its components, and its hoses are inspected thoroughly, and if any damage is found, the component is replaced with a new one. Similarly, the water pump and thermostat are also replaced when faced with malfunctions.
Maintenance Practices:
- Regular check of the coolant level.
- Usage of brand-approved coolant.
- Regular monitoring of the temperature gauge.
- Act immediately if you observe any early warning signs of a cooling system malfunction.
- Maintain the factory schedule service routine for the cooling system.
Premier Maserati Repair and Service Shop in Duluth
The European Service Center facility in Duluth is the premier garage for high-quality repair and maintenance services for European auto models, including Maserati. Our facility is home to highly experienced ASE-certified technicians with in-depth expertise in European auto repair and servicing. The facility is equipped with top-notch equipment, including a factory-grade scanner, brand-licensed software, and the latest repair tools.
We always use OEM parts and components for all our repairs and services. Our trusted partner, LiquiMoly, ensures that we put high-quality, compatible fluid in all our customers’ cars. Since 1979, we have been sincerely working with European auto owners in Duluth and its surrounding cities, including Johns Creek, Lawrenceville, and Norcross.