The cooling system and the heater share the same coolant. The water pump pushes coolant through the engine, the thermostat decides when it goes to the radiator, and some of it runs through the heater core behind the dashboard to warm the cabin. A problem in one often shows up in the other.
In summer the usual complaint is overheating in slow traffic, often from a cooling fan, a clogged radiator or coolant lost to a leak. In winter it's no heat: a thermostat stuck open so the engine never warms up, air trapped in the system, or a heater core that's plugged or leaking.
We start with a pressure test to find leaks, check the fans, thermostat and coolant condition, and test for combustion gases in the coolant if anything points to a head gasket. Then you get a quote.
Why it matters
Overheating can ruin an engine
A few kilometres driven hot can warp a cylinder head or blow a head gasket. If the gauge climbs, pull over and shut the engine off.
Heat means defrost
No heat means no defrost. A windshield that won't clear on a −15 °C morning is a safety problem, not a comfort one.
Leaks rarely fix themselves
Small leaks from a hose, the water pump or a cracked plastic radiator tank tend to get worse. Catching one early usually means replacing a part, not dealing with an overheated engine.
Signs it's time
- Temperature gauge climbing above normal
- Sweet smell or steam from under the hood
- Green, orange or pink puddles under the front of the car
- Heater blows cold or only lukewarm
- Damp passenger-side carpet or a greasy film inside the windshield
- Heater fan only works on the highest setting
What's included
- Cooling system pressure test
- Coolant level, condition and freeze protection check
- Thermostat and engine warm-up check
- Radiator fan operation test
- Hoses, clamps and water pump inspected
- Combustion leak test if a head gasket is suspected
- Heater core and blower motor checks
- Written quote before any repair
How often
Check the coolant every fall
Test the freeze protection before winter and look for leaks. Replace coolant on the schedule in your owner's manual; many long-life coolants go five years or more.
