What's involved
What this repair actually is.
A technician inspects the radiator, hoses, water pump, reservoir, and heater core, and uses pressure and dye testing when needed to find the exact source of a coolant leak. Coolant can leak from a dozen different places, and some leaks burn off inside the engine without ever leaving a puddle, so pinpointing the source first avoids replacing the wrong part.
Symptoms
How you can tell.
- Green, orange, or pink puddles under the car
- Coolant level keeps dropping between top-offs
- Sweet smell outside or inside the car
- White smoke from the exhaust
- Oily film on the inside of the windshield
- Low coolant light comes on repeatedly
If you delay
A small leak eventually empties the system and causes overheating, which can destroy the head gasket or the engine itself.
Educational estimate. Real pricing depends on your vehicle, the inspection, parts availability, taxes, and shop rates. Use this as a guide while you shop quotes.