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 You Need Cooling System Service
A failing radiator can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed promptly. Recognizing early warning signs helps you schedule radiator repair before you are stranded. Watch for these four indicators that your vehicle needs professional attention:
- Coolant Leaks: Puddles of fluid under your vehicle often indicate a breach in the system.
- Overheating Engine: If your temperature gauge spikes, immediate inspection is required.
- Discolored Fluid: Rusty or dirty coolant suggests corrosion is occurring inside the radiator.
- Steam Rising: Steam coming from under the hood is a critical sign of system failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I schedule a coolant flush?
We generally recommend a coolant flush every 30,000 miles or as specified in your owner's manual. Over time, fluid becomes contaminated with debris, losing its ability to protect against rust. Regular flushing removes these contaminants and maintains optimal engine temperature.
How do I know if I need a thermostat replacement?
If your engine overheats, the temperature gauge reads erratically, or performance declines, you may need a thermostat replacement. This small component regulates engine temperature, and a malfunction can cause severe damage. Our technicians can diagnose this quickly during an inspection.
Is it better to repair or replace my radiator?
This depends on the severity of the damage. For isolated leaks, a focused radiator repair may suffice. However, if there is widespread corrosion or structural damage, we will recommend radiator replacement in College Station for long-term reliability and engine protection.
Why are regular cooling system checks important?
Regular cooling system checks allow us to detect issues like worn hoses or small leaks early. This prevents sudden overheating and extends the lifespan of your cooling components. It is a proactive way to avoid costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly.
Do you service all makes and models in College Station?
Yes, at Christian Brothers Automotive College Station, we provide expert radiator repair that residents trust for all vehicle types. Whether you drive a truck, SUV, or sedan, our skilled technicians have the expertise to maintain your cooling system effectively.
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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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"Very courteous people and very helpful. Highly recommend."
- B. G.