What's involved
What this repair actually is.
The coolant reservoir (overflow or expansion tank) stores coolant as the engine heats and cools. The plastic gets brittle over the years and develops hairline cracks that seep coolant — on many vehicles the tank is pressurized, so a crack leaks constantly. We replace the tank and cap, refill the coolant, and check for leaks.
Symptoms
How you can tell.
- Visible crack or brown staining on the plastic tank
- Coolant pooling under the reservoir
- Low coolant light despite regular top-offs
- Tank looks yellowed and brittle
- Coolant smell after parking
If you delay
A cracked tank keeps venting coolant until the level drops enough to overheat the engine.
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.
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