Back to all

Sovel's Auto Service Radiator Service

October 31, 2014



The coolant system is a vital part of your vehicle. It is also the second most common cause for vehicle failures. Even though coolant system failure is fairly common in Novi, it is easy to prevent.

Sovel's Auto Service
41425 W. 10 Mile Rd
Novi, Michigan 48375
248-348-7337
   
248-348-7337

The most recognizable part of the coolant system to Novi auto owners is the radiator. It is connected to the engine with hoses and is filled with coolant. The coolant draws heat off the engine and then passes into the radiator. Air passes through cooling fins to reduce the temperature of the coolant and then it's back to the engine again.

There are several ways for the cooling system failure. Most common is with the coolant itself. Coolant is comprised of water and antifreeze. The proper ratio keeps the coolant from either boiling away or freezing. Understandably, either can lead to massive engine damage.

Another critical coolant issue that is often overlooked by Novi drivers is the age of the coolant itself. Antifreeze has additives that protect the coolant system from corrosion. As these additives are depleted over time, they can't protect the radiator and other parts from rust, scaling and corrosion. That old container of coolant gathering dust in your garage may still keep your engine cool, but it won't protect it from corrosion.

If get a warning message to check the coolant or if the SUV temperature gauge is in the hot zone, your cooling system needs to be checked. It's OK to add water or antifreeze yourself. But you need to be cautious. Remember four things:

  • First, you never want to open the radiator pressure cap. You could be severely burned.
  • Second, get to Sovel's Auto Service in Novi immediately if your coolant is low. If that is not possible, follow the directions in your SUV owners manual - it will direct you to only make additions to the coolant overflow bottle.
  • Third, remember that you need a proper mixture of water and antifreeze. If you make an emergency addition to your cooling system, follow-up with your Sovel's Auto Service service center where we can make necessary adjustments.
  • Fourth, not all cars use the same type of antifreeze. You need to check your SUV owners manual to make sure you use the right kind. Mixing antifreeze types or using the wrong kind of antifreeze may void the manufacturers warranty on your cooling system. Again, another reason to depend on your Sovel's Auto Service service center in Novi to do things right.

Remember, your Novi service center has the equipment to change your coolant quickly and inexpensively.

Need Service?

Request a Quote

More articles from Sovel's Auto Repair Novi

Steering You Right (Tie Rod End Replacement)

September 14, 2025

For drivers, S stands for safety. And there are three other words that start with S that are all equally important: starting, stopping and steering. For your vehicle to be at its safest, all three functions must be in top shape. Steering is one of those things we take for granted. After all, y... More

Feeling Powerless (Why Is My Battery Light On?)

September 7, 2025

When one of your vehicles warning lights comes on, the first thing that comes to mind is, Oh, no, whats wrong now? When its the battery light, it means theres something wrong with your vehicles battery or charging system. And because both are important for your vehicle to work properly, its a go... More

Refresh Your Brakes (Brake Fluid Exchange)

August 31, 2025

Brakes are one of your vehicle's most important safety components, and you may have noticed that they don't stop as surely as they used to. Maybe it takes you applying a little more pressure to them than before, or perhaps you get the feeling that they're not stopping you as quickly. Those could... More