Cooling System Repair Service and Maintenance
Pricing
We are always happy to get you an estimate. If you need a repair, we can do so if you know exactly what your car needs, or we can perform the appropriate testing. If maintenance is due, we need to check the maintenance guide for your specific car. Also, you can always check our auto repair specials to see if our current offer may apply.
Standard Coolant Replacement or Flush
Includes:
- Attach flushing machine
- Reverse flush system until fluid is clear
- Refill with new coolant mixture
- Protection to -35 degrees
What does the Engine Coolant do?
Actually, it does a lot of things! As the description implies the coolant fluid (antifreeze) prevents the engine temperature from getting too high by circulating the coolant through the different parts of your engine, then running it through your radiator to cool it off (from the air blowing on your radiator), then it goes back to the engine and the process begins again. As it runs through the engine some of it is sent to your heater. The heater can then heat your interior similar to the way a house is warmed with a hot water (boiler) heating system.
When the coolant is sent to the radiator it enters one side hot and comes out the other side much cooler. To keep the transmission from getting too hot transmission fluid is sent to the cooler side of the radiator to reduce its temperature, then the cooler transmission fluid is sent back to the transmission.
The reason the coolant is also referred to as antifreeze is that it contains chemicals which freeze at a much lower temperature than water. Coolant in most engines is mixed to achieve a freezing point of about -35F (-37C). Chemicals in the coolant also increase the boiling point of the coolant to a temperature higher than that of water. Optimal operating temperature for coolant in a typical engine is about 230F (110C). Finally, the chemicals inhibit the formation of rust and corrosion inside the cooling system parts.
When should the Coolant be replaced?
Your owner’s manual will have a recommended time and mileage for when you should replace the coolant. Over time the chemicals deteriorate preventing the coolant from doing its job properly. When that occurs the odds of engine damage and cooling system repairs increase. Examples of parts that can fail include water pumps, radiators, coolant hoses, heater cores, cylinder head gaskets, and thermostats. Intervals can vary greatly so it always best to consult the manual. If the coolant fails testing or inspection it may be recommended to replace it sooner than the normal interval. A common misconception about coolant replacement is that it can cure some cooling system symptoms. This is rarely true. Symptoms are almost always caused by a failed part of the cooling system – which may have failed due to the condition of the coolant.