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 Cooling System Needs Attention
Look out for the following indicators:
- Engine overheating or frequent temperature spikes: If your gauge climbs steadily or unpredictably, it could indicate low coolant levels, thermostat issues, or a clogged radiator.
- Visible coolant leaks or puddles: Bright green, yellow, or orange fluid under your vehicle or around the radiator cap is a clear sign of a leak.
- Steam from under the hood: Steam or smoke suggests overheating; CBAC warns to stop driving immediately and have the system inspected.
- Discolored or burnt coolant: Rusty, dirty, or dark coolant loses its efficiency and indicates internal corrosion or buildup.
- Unusual engine noises or poor mileage: A failing water pump, corroded hoses, or inefficient coolant flow can cause noise and lower fuel efficiency.
What's Included in Our Radiator & Coolant Services
You can expect:
- Thorough system diagnostics & leak detection: We test pressure, inspect hoses, caps, and seals using OEM-grade equipment.
- Complete coolant flush: We use a power-flush machine to remove old coolant, rust, scale, and contaminants, then refill with fresh coolant and conditioner for optimal protection.
- Radiator repair & replacement: We fix minor leaks, replace damaged radiators, and restore full cooling capacity.
- Component inspection: The water pump, thermostat, radiator cap, and hoses are evaluated and repaired or replaced to ensure the entire system works seamlessly.
- Transparent digital vehicle inspection: You receive photos, videos, and clear explanations of findings and recommendations before any work begins.
Why Choose Us?
Here's how we set ourselves apart:
- ASE‑certified technicians & OEM-grade tools: Ensures precise diagnostics and quality repairs.
- 3‑year/36,000‑mile "Nice Difference" warranty: You're covered for worry‑free results.
- Fully transparent service: Approvals based on Digital Vehicle Inspections; you decide what's necessary.
- Free shuttle & exceptional customer care: We offer shuttle services, comfortable waiting areas, and genuine hospitality.
- Proactive maintenance philosophy: We identify and remedy potential issues early to save you time and money.
Don't let a faulty cooling system leave you stranded!
Contact us at (678) 944-9893 or online to schedule your cooling system inspection or service today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I flush my coolant system?
Most manufacturers recommend a flush every 30,000 miles or 3–5 years, depending on your owner's manual. CBAC typically suggests annually, especially for older vehicles.
What are the symptoms of a failing radiator?
Common signs of radiator issues include:
- Significant drops in coolant levels
- Steady overheating or steam
- Visible corrosion, discoloration, or coolant puddles.
- Poor heater performance relates to radiator core issues.
Is it safe to drive with a coolant leak?
No. A leak, even a small one, risks engine overheating, internal damage, and breakdowns. CBAC advises stopping the vehicle immediately and arranging service .
How long does a radiator repair or coolant flush take?
In most cases, you can expect:
- Coolant flush: typically 1–2 hours
- Radiator repair/replacement: a few hours, depending on the severity and parts needed.
Expect a Digital Vehicle Inspection within the same visit, along with clear time estimates.
Can a bad thermostat cause my engine to overheat?
Yes—when a thermostat fails to open, coolant flow stops, trapping heat in the engine. CBAC lists' thermostat failure' as a common source of overheating.
FAQs
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
-
"I liked the customer service and going above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable while waiting in the store for my vehicle work to be done, specifically being offered a nice hot coffee with creamer."
- J.L.