What to Expect With a Cooling System Service
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
Did You Know: It takes up to three football fields to safely brake in the rain?
Signs Your Radiator or Cooling System Needs Attention
Your vehicle often gives warning signs before a complete system failure occurs. Recognizing these symptoms early can save you from an expensive engine replacement. If you notice any changes in how your car operates, especially regarding temperature, it is crucial to seek professional radiator service in San Antonio experts recommend immediately.
Watch for these common indicators of cooling system trouble:
- Rising Temperature Gauge: The needle moves into the red zone or fluctuates erratically while driving.
- Sweet Smell: A maple syrup-like odor inside or outside the car indicates a coolant leak.
- Puddles Under the Car: Bright green, pink, or orange fluid on your driveway suggests a breach in the system.
- Low Coolant Levels: Frequently needing to top off the reservoir means there is a leak or internal consumption.
- Steam from the Hood: Smoke or steam escaping from the engine bay is an immediate emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Perform a Coolant Flush?
Most manufacturers recommend a coolant flush every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, but this can vary based on your specific vehicle and driving habits. Over time, coolant breaks down and becomes acidic, which can corrode the inside of your radiator and engine block. Regular flushing removes these contaminants and introduces fresh fluid with active rust inhibitors. In the hot climate of San Antonio, staying on top of this maintenance is critical for preventing overheating and extending the life of your water pump and heater core.
Is It Better to Repair or Replace a Radiator?
The decision to repair or seek radiator replacement San Antonio services depends on the severity and location of the damage. Small leaks in the metal fins can sometimes be patched, but cracks in plastic tanks—common in modern vehicles—usually require a full replacement. We prioritize safety and longevity, so if a repair is just a temporary band-aid that risks future failure, we will recommend replacement. Installing a new unit ensures structural integrity and often comes with a warranty that a patch job cannot offer.
Can I Drive My Car If It Is Overheating?
No, you should never drive a vehicle that is experiencing car overheating. Driving even a short distance with an overheated engine can cause irreversible damage, such as warped cylinder heads or a blown head gasket. If your temperature gauge spikes, pull over safely, turn off the engine, and call for a tow. Continuing to push the engine when the cooling system has failed turns a manageable repair bill into a catastrophic engine replacement. It is always safer and cheaper to tow the vehicle to our auto shop.
Why Is My Coolant Level Dropping, but I See No Leaks?
If your coolant levels are dropping without visible puddles, the fluid may be leaking internally or evaporating through a weak seal. A failing head gasket can allow coolant to enter the combustion chamber, where it is burned off with the fuel. Alternatively, a small leak may only occur when the system is under high pressure while driving, with the fluid evaporating on hot engine parts before it hits the ground. Our technicians use pressure tests and dye tests to locate these hard-to-find leaks and determine the root cause.
Does Your Service Come With a Warranty?
Yes, most of our radiator services and repairs are backed by the Nice Difference® Warranty. This warranty covers you for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes last, and is honored at Christian Brothers Automotive locations nationwide. This provides peace of mind knowing that if a defective part or workmanship issue arises, you are covered whether you are in San Antonio, TX, or on a road trip. We stand behind our work because we use high-quality parts and follow strict installation procedures.
Partnering with You for Automotive Health
At Christian Brothers Automotive Alamo Heights, we are more than just a car repair services provider; we are your partners in automotive maintenance. We are committed to keeping your vehicle running safely and efficiently through honest advice, quality workmanship, and a dedication to customer service. Whether you need a routine check-up or a complex radiator repair, our team is ready to deliver the exceptional experience you deserve.
Take the next step in protecting your vehicle's engine. Call us at (210) 960-9810 or contact us online to schedule your appointment today.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
FAQs
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Q. "What happens if there is not enough coolant in my vehicle?"If you do not refill your coolant, this can harm your vehicle and lead to costly repairs. It can lead to issues such as engine damage, warning lights showing on your dashboard, and could even cut off your engine altogether. Click here to learn more about what happens to your vehicle when there is not enough coolant.
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Q. "Does the cooling system affect my vehicle's A/C?"No, your vehicle's cooling system is an essential function that focuses on regulating the temperature of your engine. If your A/C is not properly working, this is not an issue with your car's cooling system and we recommend reaching out to your local Christian Brothers to have it properly diagnosed.
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Q. "What is wrong with my vehicle's cooling system?"We typically see four common cooling system issues: water pump failure, leaky radiator hoses, radiator leaks, and thermostat failure.
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Q. "Why is my cooling system so important?"The cooling system helps regulate your engine's temperature, which is why regular maintenance is important to protect your vehicle's engine.
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Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"As part of our Nice difference.® commitment to providing our customers the best auto service experience possible, we also offer a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all the work that we do. We offer this warranty at every Christian Brothers Automotive nationwide, and it will be honored at any location, regardless of which branch did the initial work.
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Q. "Can you provide service under my extended warranty?"Yes. At Christian Brothers Automotive, we work with all major extended warranty providers to make needed repairs for our customers. If you have an extended warranty, you can discuss your carrier with our team when scheduling an appointment and confirm that the work will be covered. You can find a partial list of the extended warranty companies we work with here.
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
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"Eric and the guys (and gals) at the alamo heights location were awesome!!!! Eric was able to come in under his oRiginal quote and on time! The vehicLe was Repaired correctly the first time and everyone at the shop, from the receptionist in the front, to Th"
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