Coolant Service Video

Coolant, also called antifreeze, is the fluid that absorbs heat from your engine and carries it out through the radiator. It also protects internal metal from corrosion and keeps the system from freezing or boiling at temperature extremes.

This video walks through how coolant circulates between the engine block, the water pump, the thermostat, and the radiator. It also shows what the fluid itself is doing chemically. In normal operation, it stays within a specific pH range and holds additives that coat aluminum and iron surfaces against scale and rust.

Coolant does not fail loudly at first. The additive package depletes over time, and the fluid gradually turns acidic. You might see rusty or muddy color in the reservoir, a sweet smell under the hood, or a slow drop in the level. A dropping level often points to a seep at a hose, the water pump, or the radiator.

A proper inspection checks fluid condition with test strips and pressure-tests the system for leaks. It also verifies the correct coolant type, since mixing chemistries causes gel formation. When the fluid or a component needs attention, our cooling, AC and heating system repair service covers the full scope of work.

Moses Lake’s hot summers and sub-freezing winters push coolant to both extremes, so its freeze protection and additives wear out faster than in milder climates.

If your temperature gauge is climbing or you spot colored fluid under the car, call Affordable Automotive Services at (509) 764-0000. You can also visit a car repair near you in Moses Lake to book an inspection.