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
Many drivers are not sure if their problem is the radiator itself or another part of the cooling system. What matters is recognizing the warning signs early so you can have the system inspected before a minor issue turns into major engine damage. If you see one or more of these symptoms, it is a good idea to schedule a checkup with our team.
Common Symptoms of Radiator Problems
You might notice the temperature gauge creeping higher than normal, especially in traffic or while idling. There may be steam coming from under the hood or a sweet smell that suggests coolant is leaking and burning off on hot engine parts. You could also see colored fluid under the front of the vehicle or find that you need to top off coolant more often than you used to.
Sometimes the engine overheats only under certain conditions, such as when you are driving slowly through busy streets or stopped at a long traffic light. Other times, you might see rust colored coolant in the reservoir or on and around the radiator. These symptoms do not always mean the radiator is the only problem, which is why our technicians inspect the entire cooling system before recommending any work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my radiator is the problem?
The best way to know whether your radiator is the problem is to have the entire cooling system inspected by a trained technician. Common radiator-related symptoms include overheating, frequent low coolant levels, visible coolant leaks near the front of the vehicle, and rust or discoloration in the coolant reservoir. However, other components, such as the thermostat, water pump, or cooling fan, can create similar symptoms.
At Christian Brothers Automotive Valley Ranch, our ASE-certified technicians inspect the radiator along with hoses, connections, and related parts so we can identify the true source of the issue before recommending any service. This approach helps ensure that the repair you choose addresses the actual cause rather than just the symptom.
Will you tell me if I can repair my radiator instead of replacing it?
Yes, our team will always explain whether repair is a realistic option before recommending a full replacement. During the inspection, we look at how severe the damage is, whether there are multiple problem areas, and how the condition of the radiator fits with the age and mileage of your vehicle.
If a focused repair, such as addressing a small leak or replacing connected components, can reasonably support reliable operation, we will explain that option and what you can expect from it. When we believe radiator replacement is a better long-term solution, we will walk you through the reasons so you can see how we reached that recommendation. Our goal is to give you clear choices rather than push you toward a single answer.
How long does radiator repair or replacement usually take?
Many radiator-related services can be completed within the same day, although the exact timing depends on what we find during the inspection and whether any parts need to be ordered. A straightforward repair, such as replacing a hose or addressing a minor leak, often takes less time than a full radiator replacement. If a new radiator is needed, the schedule can depend on how quickly we receive the correct part for your vehicle.
When you visit Christian Brothers Automotive Valley Ranch, we will provide an estimated timeframe once we understand your specific situation. While your car is being serviced, you can wait in our comfortable lobby or use our complimentary shuttle to keep up with your commitments in Irving.
What kind of warranty do you offer on radiator work?
We support our radiator and cooling system services with an industry-leading warranty that reflects our confidence in the quality of our work. Specific warranty terms can vary by service and part, and our team will explain how coverage applies to your repair or radiator replacement so that you know what to expect. This warranty is designed to give you peace of mind after you leave, whether you choose a repair or a replacement.
When you bring your vehicle to Christian Brothers Automotive Valley Ranch, you can ask us to go over the warranty details for your recommended services before you approve the work. We believe that understanding your coverage is an important part of feeling secure about your decision.
Can you help if my car is already overheating on the road?
If your car is already overheating on the road, we encourage you to focus on safety first and then contact us for guidance. Once you are in a safe location and the engine has cooled, you can call our shop and explain what you are experiencing. Our team can help you decide whether it is reasonable to drive the vehicle a short distance or if you should arrange for a tow to avoid risking further damage.
When we know that a vehicle has recently overheated, we work to take that into account when scheduling because we understand the urgency. Our priority is to help you move from a stressful situation to a safe and practical plan for getting your cooling system checked and repaired.
Do you work on radiators for older or high-mileage vehicles?
We regularly inspect and service radiators on vehicles of many ages and mileage levels. Older and higher mileage vehicles can have particular cooling system challenges, such as more extensive corrosion, brittle hoses, or radiators that have reached the end of their useful life.
During our inspection, we consider how the condition of the radiator and related components fits with the overall age of the vehicle and how you plan to use it. In some cases, a repair may be appropriate, while in others, replacement can be a better investment to avoid repeated problems. We will explain the options that make sense for your specific vehicle so you can choose the path that feels right for you.
How much will radiator service cost me?
The cost of radiator service depends on what we find during the inspection and whether your vehicle needs a minor repair, more extensive cooling system work, or a full radiator replacement. We do not provide one-size-fits-all prices because every vehicle and situation is different. After our ASE-certified technicians inspect your cooling system, we will give you a clear estimate that outlines the recommended services and associated costs.
We will answer your questions about that estimate so you understand what each item covers before you approve any work. Our focus is on transparency and helping you see how the recommended service protects your engine and supports the long-term health of your vehicle.
Schedule Radiator Service With Our Team
If you are dealing with overheating, coolant leaks, or other signs of cooling system trouble, you do not have to guess at the problem on your own. At Christian Brothers Automotive Valley Ranch, we provide thorough diagnostics, clear explanations, and quality solutions for radiator and cooling system concerns. From careful inspection to radiator replacement, our team works to protect your engine and help you drive with confidence.
When you choose us for radiator service, you benefit from ASE-certified technicians, manufacturer-quality equipment, and an industry-leading warranty that supports your decision. We also make the process more comfortable with a welcoming environment and a complimentary shuttle to keep your day moving. If you need radiator repair Irving drivers can rely on, or you simply want to stay ahead of cooling system maintenance, we are ready to help.
To schedule your radiator service or cooling system inspection, contact us online or call (972) 346-1109 today.
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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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"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.