Cooling system and radiator repair in Winthrop Harbor
Pfeiffer Auto Clinic repairs cooling systems and radiators in Winthrop Harbor, Illinois, on cars, SUVs, pickups, vans, and work trucks: radiator replacement, hoses and clamps, thermostats, water pumps, cooling fans, pressure testing, and coolant flushes. Have it checked if the temperature gauge climbs, you see coolant under the vehicle or smell something sweet, there is steam from the hood, or the heater blows cold. Driving an overheating engine can ruin a head gasket, so pull over and call (847) 746-8291.
Cooling system services
- Radiator replacement
- Upper and lower radiator hoses, heater hoses, and clamps
- Thermostat replacement
- Water pump replacement
- Electric and clutch cooling fans
- Pressure testing for leaks
- Coolant flush and refill with the specified coolant
- Freeze protection testing before winter
Why radiators fail here
Road salt and lake air corrode radiator cores and the aluminum and plastic tanks wear out with heat cycles. A radiator that weeps at a seam, has crushed fins, or shows sludge in the coolant usually needs replacement rather than a patch. We show you what we found before work begins.
Overheating causes
- Low coolant from a leaking hose, radiator, or water pump
- A thermostat stuck closed
- A cooling fan, fan clutch, or fan relay that has failed
- A clogged radiator or condenser in front of it
- Air trapped in the system after a repair
- A head gasket pushing combustion gas into the coolant
The automatic transmission connection
On many automatics, the radiator also cools the transmission fluid. A failed internal cooler can mix coolant and transmission fluid, which turns the fluid pink and milky. If you see that, stop driving and call us. See transmission repair.
Winter protection
Coolant protects against freezing as well as overheating. We test freeze protection so a January cold snap does not crack an engine block or radiator.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my car overheating?
Common causes are low coolant from a leak, a stuck thermostat, a failing water pump, a clogged radiator, or a cooling fan problem. A pressure test and a few checks tell which.
How often should coolant be changed?
Follow your owner's manual. Many modern coolants last a long time, while older types need more frequent changes.
Can a radiator be repaired instead of replaced?
Small hose and clamp leaks are simple repairs. Most modern radiators with a leaking core or cracked plastic tank are replaced, because repairs to them rarely last.