What maintenance action is commonly performed to prevent cooling system leaks?

Inspecting clamps and connectors is crucial for preventing cooling system leaks because these components ensure that coolant is properly contained within the system. Over time, clamps can loosen, connectors can deteriorate, or hoses can wear out, potentially leading to leaks. By regularly inspecting these parts, any signs of wear or damage can be caught early, allowing for repairs or replacements before actual leaks occur.

While replacing belts, flushing the coolant, and checking oil levels are important maintenance tasks, they do not directly address the integrity of the cooling system's connections and fastenings. For instance, replacing belts relates more to the functioning of the engine and its accessories rather than the cooling fluid's containment. Flushing the coolant focuses on cleaning and renewing the coolant itself rather than preventing leaks. Checking the oil level is critical for engine lubrication but is unrelated to the cooling system's effectiveness or leak prevention. Therefore, the regular inspection of clamps and connectors is the most pertinent action for maintaining the integrity of the cooling system.