Failure of your car's cooling system becomes readily apparent when it happens. The first sign is usually a glowing warning light or an extremely high reading on your car's temperature gauge. Your car's cooling system has three main components: the radiator, water pump, and thermostat. All three parts work to keep your car from overheating. A fifty-fifty mixture of coolant and water is moved through the engine by the water pump to help regulate temperature. If there's not enough liquid in the system or if one of the components isn't working correctly, your car may overheat and possibly leave you stranded. Your car's hoses and belts should be checked often for signs of wear or deterioration. Periodically check the fluid in your car's radiator to make sure it's at the proper level. It's a good idea to have your car's cooling system drained and back-flushed every few years. This can prevent build-up of rust and other sediment in the radiator. For more information on your car's cooling system, contact a mechanic in your area.