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 Needs Attention
Radiator and cooling system problems often start with subtle changes. Catching those signs early can help you avoid serious engine damage and unexpected breakdowns. If you notice any of the following issues, it is time to have your cooling system checked by a trusted shop.
Common signs your radiator or cooling system may have a problem include:
- The temperature gauge is moving higher than normal or entering the red zone, especially in traffic or on hills.
- Steam or visible vapor coming from under the hood after driving or while stopped.
- Sweet, syrup-like smell around the vehicle, which often points to a coolant leak.
- Puddles or spots of bright green, orange, or pink fluid on the driveway or parking space.
- I need to add coolant frequently because the level keeps dropping.
These signs can point to issues with the radiator, hoses, water pump, thermostat, cooling fans, or other connected parts. Continuing to drive with any of these symptoms can put your engine at risk, especially if the temperature gauge is very high or you see steam. If you are unsure whether it is safe to drive, we encourage you to call us so we can help you decide on the safest next step.
Scheduling a cooling system inspection as soon as you notice changes is one of the best ways to protect your vehicle. Our team will look for the underlying cause of the problem, not just the surface symptom, so you can address it before it leads to more expensive repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to keep driving if my engine is overheating?
It is generally not safe to keep driving when your engine is overheating. If the temperature gauge reaches the red zone or you see steam from under the hood, continued driving can lead to serious engine damage. When it is safe to do so, pull over, turn the engine off, and let the vehicle cool down. Avoid opening the radiator cap while the engine is hot, because pressurized coolant can cause burns. Once the vehicle has cooled, you can contact our team to talk through your situation and decide whether it is better to arrange a tow or drive in carefully, depending on how severe the issue appears.
How do you decide between radiator repair and full replacement?
We decide between repair and replacement by evaluating the condition of your radiator and the rest of your cooling system. Our technicians look at where the leak or damage is located, how extensive any corrosion is, and how old the radiator appears to be. In some cases, a small external issue can be addressed with a repair, especially if the rest of the system is in good condition. In other cases, multiple leaks, heavy rust, or cracks in the core or tanks mean a full radiator replacement is usually the more dependable long-term choice. We review our findings with you, explain your options, and help you weigh short-term cost against long-term reliability so you can choose what fits your needs.
How long does radiator service usually take?
The time needed for radiator service depends on what we find during the inspection and the type of vehicle you drive. A basic cooling system check and minor repair may be completed the same day in many situations, while more involved work, such as full radiator replacement, can take longer due to part availability and the complexity of the vehicle design. When you bring your vehicle in, we will outline an estimated timeframe based on our initial assessment and keep you updated if that timing changes. While we work on your vehicle, you can wait in our lobby or ask about our complimentary shuttle service to keep up with your day.
What kind of warranty do you offer on radiator work?
We back our work with an industry-leading warranty that applies to qualifying radiator and cooling system services. This warranty reflects our confidence in the quality of our parts and workmanship. When we recommend a repair or replacement, we will explain how the warranty applies to that specific service so you know what is covered. Our goal is for you to leave knowing that your investment in your vehicle is protected. If you have questions about coverage for a particular repair, our team is happy to walk you through the details before any work begins.
Will you explain the problem to me in simple terms?
Yes, we will. Clear communication is a central part of how we serve our guests. After we inspect your cooling system, we take time to explain what we found in everyday language, without overwhelming you with technical terms. When possible, we show you the parts involved so you can see what we are describing. We encourage questions and never want you to feel rushed or pressured into a decision. Our aim is for you to understand what is happening with your vehicle and feel comfortable with any repair you approve.
Can I wait at your shop while my radiator is checked?
In many cases, you can wait at our shop while we perform an initial check on your radiator and cooling system. We provide a clean, welcoming waiting area where you can relax while our team gets started on your vehicle. If it looks like the visit will take longer than you prefer to wait, you can ask about our complimentary shuttle service, which is designed to help you stay on top of your schedule. We will communicate timing expectations as clearly as we can so you can choose the option that works best for your day.
How much will radiator repair or replacement cost?
The cost of fixing a cooling system issue can vary depending on the type of vehicle, the specific problem, and whether your situation calls for a repair or a full radiator replacement. Because of this, we begin with a careful inspection so we can provide an accurate estimate based on your actual needs. Once we understand what is causing the overheating or leak, we explain the recommended work and its cost before you approve anything. You will know what you are paying for and how it helps protect your engine. If you have budget concerns, let us know, and we can talk through options with you.
Schedule Your Radiator Service Today
If you are dealing with overheating, coolant leaks, or a temperature gauge that does not feel right, we are here to help you address the problem before it becomes a larger repair. At Christian Brothers Automotive Arlington, our ASE-certified technicians, manufacturer-quality equipment, and strong warranty come together to support dependable cooling systems and radiator work. We walk you through what we find, discuss options in plain language, and treat you with the care we would want for our own families.
Scheduling a visit is a simple way to protect your engine, your time, and your budget. Whether your vehicle needs a small adjustment or more involved cooling system work, we strive to make the process as clear and convenient as possible. We invite you to reach out with questions, talk through your situation, and find a time that works for your schedule.
To schedule your radiator inspection or service, contact us online or call (817) 623-5662.
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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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"Great service ,very courteous and caring family. Norman, Le Ann it was great meeting you and I'm looking forward to working with you again. Let's not forget Jason very understanding when I went to the wrong garage. They all made me feel like family. Thank "
- James Beaucham