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?
Recognizing the Need for a Coolant Flush
Most manufacturers recommend specific intervals for a coolant flush, typically outlined in your owner's manual. However, in our hot climate, technicians often suggest checking fluid quality annually to prevent corrosion. If you are unsure when your last service was performed, our team at Christian Brothers Automotive Apollo Beach can provide an honest assessment. We help protect your investment by ensuring your cooling system remains efficient year-round.
Watch for early warning signs like your temperature gauge climbing higher than usual or a sweet smell after parking. You might also notice small spots of colored fluid where you park, indicating a leak. Addressing these symptoms promptly with professional radiator service in Apollo Beach that residents trust allows us to fix minor issues before they turn into expensive breakdowns or engine failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a coolant flush?
Most manufacturers recommend a coolant flush every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. However, in the hot Apollo Beach climate, it is smart to check the fluid's pH and condition annually to prevent internal corrosion.
Can a radiator be repaired, or must it be replaced?
It depends on the damage. Small leaks in metal radiators can sometimes be repaired, but most modern plastic and aluminum units require radiator replacement service because the plastic tanks cannot be reliably patched.
What causes a radiator to crack?
Heat cycles, vibration, and internal pressure eventually fatigue the plastic tanks found on most modern radiators. Old coolant can also become acidic, eating away at the metal core from the inside out, leading to failure.
Is it safe to drive with a small coolant leak?
No, it is risky. A small leak lowers the boiling point of the fluid and reduces pressure, which can lead to sudden overheating. It is best to schedule radiator repair in Apollo Beach immediately to avoid engine damage.
Why is my car overheating in traffic but fine on the highway?
This usually points to an airflow issue, such as a failing cooling fan or a blocked condenser. On the highway, air is forced through the radiator, but in traffic, the fan must do the work.
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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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"They repaired my AC system and I am very pleased!"
- Greg