Coolant reservoir replacement
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Coolant reservoir replacement
How much does a coolant reservoir replacement cost?
The cooling system provides a consistent operating temperature for your engine, cycling engine coolant throughout, and the coolant reservoir is a storage facility for excess coolant.
In the normal course of operation, coolant expands and contracts, some may evaporate, and more yet could seep or leak out of the reservoir.
If there’s a leak, the coolant reservoir will need to be replaced. It’s designed to last the lifetime of your car, but you may require coolant reservoir replacement if an unexpected problem occurs.
A typical replacement cost for the coolant reservoir is between $150 and $350, however some makes and models can be much more.
What is a coolant reservoir?
The coolant reservoir is an active storage facility for your engine’s coolant. Located in the engine compartment, usually mounted to the inner fender or the front crossmember, the coolant reservoir collects coolant as it expands with heat, then reintroduces it into the cooling system to keep the system full.
The coolant reservoir is most commonly made of translucent white plastic with connections for hoses and a sensor integrated.
Extreme direct heat can cause the plastic to warp. Harsh movements and impact can cause the plastic to crack. In some cases, the coolant level sensor may read incorrectly or not at all.
Whether it’s due to a leak or sensor failure, the coolant reservoir will need to be replaced.
Symptoms your coolant reservoir requires replacement
- Engine coolant leaking from reservoir
- Low coolant indicator illuminated on the dash
- Engine temperature is high or engine is overheating
How is a coolant reservoir replacement performed?
- The bonnet is lifted and the cooling system is inspected for leaks
- If the coolant reservoir is damaged or leaking, or the sensor has failed, it needs to be changed
- The cooling system is drained
- The old coolant reservoir is discarded and a new one is installed
- The cooling system is filled and bled of air
- The technician runs the engine to operating temperature and road tests to confirm the repair
Tips to remember
- Air introduced into the cooling system can cause an airlock. The result may be poor heater operation or your engine may overheat.
- During coolant reservoir replacement, it’s a good time to flush and replace the engine coolant if it’s contaminated or approaching its replacement interval.
How important is replacing your coolant reservoir?
If you’ve discovered a problem with your coolant reservoir, you may not be able to drive your car with confidence in its reliability until the problem is repaired.
Driving your car with a leaking coolant reservoir could eventually cause more expensive repairs like head gasket replacement if left unattended, especially with overheating concerns.
If you’ve read this far, you obviously care about your car. A lot. So next time you need a service, repair or inspection, visit AutoGuru.com.au.
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