Coolant Repair & Cooling System Service in Calgary: What Drivers Need to Know

Your vehicle’s coolant does more than just “prevent freezing.” It’s the fluid that carries heat away from the engine, keeps temperatures stable in all seasons, and even helps provide cabin heat in winter. When the cooling system has a problem—like a leak, weak thermostat, or failing water pump—your engine can overheat quickly and suffer major damage.

If you’re smelling coolant, seeing puddles, getting an overheating warning, or losing heat inside the cabin, here’s what it can mean and what to do next.

What Is Coolant and Why Is It So Important?

Coolant (also called antifreeze) circulates through the engine and radiator to:

Prevent overheating
Help maintain consistent engine temperature
Prevent freezing in winter
Protect against internal corrosion and rust
Provide heat for your cabin through the heater core

A small issue—like a slow leak—can turn into a big repair if it’s ignored.

Common Signs You Need Coolant Repair

Here are the most common warning signs of a cooling system issue:

1) Engine overheating or temperature gauge running hot

If the gauge climbs higher than normal, stop and shut the vehicle off as soon as it’s safe. Overheating can warp engine components and lead to costly damage.

2) Low coolant warning / frequent top-ups

If you’re adding coolant often, there’s usually a leak—or the system isn’t holding pressure properly.

3) Sweet smell under the hood or inside the cabin

Coolant often smells slightly sweet. If you notice it inside the vehicle, the heater core may be leaking.

4) Puddle under the vehicle (often pink, green, orange, or blue)

Coolant comes in different colors depending on the type. A puddle near the front of the vehicle is a common clue.

5) No heat in the cabin during winter

A low coolant level or a heater core/circulation issue can cause weak or no cabin heat—especially noticeable in Calgary winters.

6) Visible steam from under the hood

Steam can mean coolant is leaking onto a hot engine component. This should be checked immediately.

What Causes Coolant Leaks and Cooling System Problems?

Cooling systems operate under pressure and heat—over time, parts wear out. Common causes include:

Radiator leaks (cracks, corrosion, or damaged end tanks)
Coolant hoses that become soft, swollen, cracked, or leaking
Thermostat failure (stuck closed = overheating; stuck open = engine runs cold)
Water pump leaks (often from the weep hole or gasket)
Heater core leaks (coolant smell inside, foggy windows, wet passenger floor)
Coolant reservoir / cap failure (can cause pressure loss and coolant loss)
Head gasket issues (less common, but more serious—coolant loss with no visible leak)

Is It Safe to Drive with a Coolant Leak?

Even a “small” leak can become a breakdown. Driving while low on coolant can lead to:

Overheating
Engine misfires and poor performance
Damage to the radiator or water pump
In worst cases: engine failure

If your temperature warning comes on or the gauge spikes, it’s safer to stop and have it inspected rather than risking major damage.

Coolant Repair vs Coolant Flush: What’s the Difference?

Coolant Repair (Fixing the problem)

This means addressing the root cause, such as:

Replacing a hose, clamp, thermostat, radiator, water pump, or coolant reservoir
Pressure testing to confirm where coolant is escaping
Confirming proper temperature control and circulation

Coolant Flush (Maintenance service)

A coolant flush replaces old coolant and can help:

Restore corrosion protection
Remove contaminants/sludge
Maintain proper freeze/boil protection

A flush does not fix leaks—but it’s often recommended after repairs or at the manufacturer’s interval.

How We Diagnose Cooling System Issues

To properly diagnose coolant loss, overheating, or no-heat concerns, we typically perform:

Visual inspection for leaks and residue
Cooling system pressure test
Thermostat and fan operation check
Radiator condition and flow check
Testing for exhaust gases in coolant (if needed)
Verifying correct coolant type and mixture
Road test to confirm operating temperature stability

Why Coolant Type Matters (Don’t Mix Unless You’re Sure)

Not all coolant is the same. Using the wrong type—or mixing incompatible coolants—can cause:

Sludge formation
Reduced corrosion protection
Premature component wear
Leaks caused by damaged seals

We match coolant to your vehicle’s manufacturer requirements to avoid future problems.

Book Coolant Leak Repair / Cooling System Service in Calgary

If you’re seeing coolant on the ground, losing heat, topping up often, or noticing higher engine temps, we can help. Catching cooling system issues early can prevent expensive engine damage.

Stop by or give us a call any time you’d like to book an appointment!

Heritage Dr SE. Location:

8304 Fairmount Dr, SE
Calgary, AB, T2H 0Y8

Cooling System Repair Calgary: Overheating, Coolant Leaks & No-Heat Fixes