Welcome to Autograph BVS — a professional car service center in Finestrat, Alicante. We offer a full range of radiator and cooling system repair services using state-of-the-art equipment and highly qualified specialists.

The vehicle cooling system — is a critical component that regulates engine temperature and prevents overheating. The condition of the radiator and the entire cooling system determines the performance, durability and safety of your vehicle. Our team in Finestrat is ready to perform diagnostics, repairs and maintenance of your car’s cooling system quickly and efficiently.

What is the Car Cooling System?

Cooling system — is a complex of components working together to dissipate heat from the engine and maintain optimal temperature for efficient operation. The main task is to prevent engine overheating, which can lead to serious damage and expensive repairs.

Main components of the cooling system:

• Radiator — heat exchanger where coolant transfers heat to surrounding air
• Water pump — circulates cooling liquid through the system
• Thermostat — regulates coolant temperature
• Cooling fan — increases air flow through the radiator
• Expansion tank — compensates for coolant volume changes
• Hoses and connections — transport cooling liquid
• Coolant (antifreeze) — transfers heat from engine
• Temperature sensor — monitors temperature regime

Main functions of the cooling system:

• Dissipate excess heat from the engine
• Maintain optimal working temperature (85-95°C)
• Prevent overheating and freezing
• Protect the engine from damage
• Ensure efficient operation of all vehicle systems
• Improve fuel economy

Why repair the cooling system?

• Prevent engine overheating
• Eliminate cooling liquid leaks
• Restore proper fan operation
• Replace damaged components
• Avoid expensive engine repairs
• Ensure driving safety
• Pass technical inspection (ITV)
• Extend engine service life

Types of Radiator and Cooling System Problems

1. Cooling Liquid Leaks

One of the most common problems:

Characteristics:

• Visible stains under the vehicle
• Sweet smell of antifreeze
• Low coolant level in expansion tank
• Liquid drips after parking

Causes:

• Cracks in radiator
• Damaged hoses
• Loose connection clamps
• Seal wear
• Radiator body corrosion

Consequences:

• Engine overheating
• Cylinder head gasket damage
• Engine seizure
• Possible engine failure

2. Engine Overheating

Critical problem requiring immediate attention:

Characteristics:

• Temperature gauge at maximum
• Overheating warning light on dashboard
• Smoke from under hood
• Unusual engine sounds
• Burnt liquid smell

Causes:

• Faulty thermostat
• Broken cooling fan
• Insufficient coolant
• Radiator clogging
• Failed water pump

Consequences:

• Vehicle becomes inoperable
• Cylinder head deformation
• Gasket damage
• Engine block cracking
• Complete engine failure

3. Radiator Clogging

Problem that develops over time:

Characteristics:

• Weak airflow through radiator
• Dirt and rust on radiator
• Increased engine temperature
• Improper fan operation
• Visible contamination between radiator fins

Causes:

• Dust and insect accumulation
• Rust inside system
• Poor quality coolant use
• Calcium deposits
• Metal oxidation

Consequences:

• Reduced cooling efficiency
• Increased engine temperature
• Higher fuel consumption
• Loss of engine power

4. Cooling Fan Failure

Problem with electrical part of system:

Characteristics:

• Fan doesn’t turn on
• Constant fan humming
• Excessive fan noise
• Improper fan operation
• Visible fan blade damage

Causes:

• Failed fan motor
• Temperature sensor problems
• Faulty fan relay
• Electrical wiring issues
• Mechanical damage

Consequences:

• Engine overheating
• Fan inoperability
• Reduced cooling system performance
• Potential engine failure

5. Water Pump Failure

Serious cooling liquid circulation problem:

Characteristics:

• Liquid leaking from pump
• Whistling or grinding noise from pump
• Weak coolant circulation
• Liquid stains near engine
• Milky coolant color (oil contamination)

Causes:

• Internal bearing wear
• Impeller corrosion
• Seal ring defects
• Pump shaft damage
• Metal fatigue

Consequences:

• Coolant circulation stops
• Rapid engine overheating
• Engine damage
• Possible engine seizure

6. Thermostat Failure

Temperature regulator problem:

Characteristics:

• Engine takes long to warm up
• Engine overheats quickly
• Unstable engine temperature
• Temperature gauge fluctuates
• Hoses have incorrect coolant temperature

Causes:

• Thermostat sticking
• Internal deposits
• Mechanical wear
• Valve corrosion
• Dirt contamination

Consequences:

• Improper engine operation
• Increased fuel consumption
• Engine overheating or undercooling
• Unstable idle operation

7. Hose and Connection Damage

Damage to system piping:

Characteristics:

• Visible hose cracks
• Hose rubber softening
• Coolant leaks from connections
• Hardened, brittle hoses
• Loose clamps

Causes:

• Natural rubber wear
• Temperature fluctuations
• Chemical corrosion
• Mechanical damage
• Wrong hose type used

Consequences:

• Coolant leaks
• Engine overheating
• Engine stalling
• Possible engine damage

The Cooling System Repair Process at Autograph BVS

Step 1: Visual Diagnostics
Our specialists conduct thorough inspection of entire cooling system: radiator, hoses, pump, fan and all connections. Check for leaks, cracks and visible damage.

Step 2: Coolant Level and Quality Check
We check antifreeze level in expansion tank and its condition. If liquid is old, dirty or contains contaminants, replacement is recommended.

Step 3: Computer Diagnostics (if necessary)
Using diagnostic scanner, we check temperature sensors, fan relay and condition of entire electrical part of cooling system.

Step 4: Pressure Testing
System is tested under pressure using special equipment to identify even minor leaks impossible to detect visually.

Step 5: Thermal Imaging Diagnostics (if required)
For identifying problem areas of radiator and system, thermal camera is used showing uneven cooling.

Step 6: Analysis and Consultation
Our experienced technical specialist explains discovered problems in detail, shows damage photos and recommends necessary repairs with detailed quote.

Step 7: Performing Repair Work
Depending on diagnostics, we perform necessary work:

• Radiator replacement
• Hose and clamp replacement
• Pump repair or replacement
• Thermostat replacement
• Fan repair
• Cooling system flush

Step 8: Coolant Replacement
After completing all repair work, system is flushed and filled with fresh cooling liquid of correct concentration for your vehicle.

Step 9: Final Testing
Vehicle is started and tested for leaks, proper temperature and correct fan operation. System should work stably in all modes.

Step 10: Consultation and Recommendations
We provide recommendations on cooling system care and next service dates.

Advantages of Repair at Autograph BVS

✓ Accurate diagnostics — identify problems in 30-60 minutes

✓ Professionalism — over 15 years of cooling system diagnostics and repair experience

✓ Modern equipment — using latest diagnostic scanners and pressure testers

✓ Original spare parts — using only quality parts with warranty

✓ Fair prices — competitive rates for all services

✓ Work guarantee — provide warranty on completed repairs

✓ Convenient location — located in center of Finestrat, Alicante

✓ Professional team — experienced mechanics and diagnosticians

✓ Comprehensive solutions — can perform all work in one place

✓ Time saving — perform work as quickly as possible without compromising quality

✓ Expert consultations — free consultations on vehicle condition

Types of Cooling System Repairs

1. Radiator Replacement

Complete replacement of damaged radiator with new or refurbished one:

When required:

• Cracks in radiator body
• Irreparable leaks
• Significant corrosion
• Ineffective cooling

Process:

• Drain cooling liquid
• Disconnect hoses and electrical connectors
• Remove old radiator
• Install new radiator
• Connect all hoses and connectors
• Fill system with cooling liquid
• Check for leaks and functionality

Cost: from €150 to €600 depending on vehicle model

Time: 2-4 hours

2. Radiator Cleaning and Repair

Restoring functionality of contaminated or partially damaged radiator:

When required:

• Dust and insect clogging
• Weak cooling
• Internal deposits
• Minor damage

Process:

• Remove radiator
• Flush external surface with high pressure
• Clean internal channels with special fluids
• Local repair of minor damage
• Install cleaned radiator
• Fill system with fresh coolant
• Check cooling efficiency

Cost: from €80 to €250

Time: 2-3 hours

3. Water Pump Replacement

Replacement of failed water pump:

When required:

• Pump leak
• Noisy pump operation
• Weak coolant circulation
• Complete pump failure

Process:

• Drain cooling liquid
• Disconnect pump drive belt
• Remove old pump
• Install new pump with new gasket
• Adjust belt tension
• Fill system with coolant
• Check for leaks and functionality

Cost: from €120 to €400 depending on model

Time: 1-3 hours

4. Thermostat Replacement

Replacement of failed temperature regulator:

When required:

• Unstable engine operation
• Quick overheating
• Too long warm-up
• Incorrect temperature reading

Process:

• Partial coolant drain
• Disconnect thermostat hose
• Remove old thermostat
• Install new thermostat
• Connect hose
• Fill system with coolant
• Check proper operation

Cost: from €60 to €200

Time: 1-2 hours

5. Hose and Clamp Replacement

Replacement of damaged pipes and fasteners:

When required:

• Hose cracks
• Leaks from connections
• Hardened rubber
• Loose clamps

Process:

• Partial coolant drain
• Remove old hoses and clamps
• Install new hoses and clamps
• Ensure connection tightness
• Fill system with coolant
• Check for leaks

Cost: from €40 to €150

Time: 1-2 hours

6. Cooling Fan Replacement/Repair

Replacement or repair of electrical fan:

When required:

• Fan doesn’t turn on
• Excessive fan noise
• Damaged fan blades
• Faulty relay operation

Process:

• Diagnose fan circuit
• Check temperature sensor and relay
• Remove failed fan
• Install new fan
• Check electrical connections
• Test functionality

Cost: from €100 to €350

Time: 1-3 hours

7. Cooling System Flush

Comprehensive system cleaning from deposits:

When required:

• Every 2-3 years
• Poor quality coolant
• Rust in system
• Weak cooling
• Preventive maintenance

Process:

• Drain old cooling liquid
• Fill system with special flush liquid
• Run engine for circulation
• Drain flush liquid
• Fill system with fresh coolant
• Check functionality

Cost: from €60 to €150

Time: 1-2 hours

8. Coolant Replacement

Scheduled antifreeze replacement:

When required:

• Every 30,000-40,000 km
• Every 2-3 years
• After other work completion
• When liquid color changes

Process:

• Complete drain of old coolant
• Rinse system with clean water
• Fill system with new coolant of correct concentration
• Remove air pockets
• Check level and tightness

Cost: from €40 to €120

Time: 30-60 minutes

Preventing Cooling System Problems

Regular Checks

• Weekly — visual inspection of coolant level in expansion tank
• Monthly — check hoses for cracks and leaks
• Every 10,000 km — visual inspection of entire system
• Every 30,000 km — professional system diagnostics

Scheduled Maintenance

• Every 30,000-40,000 km — coolant replacement
• Every 60,000 km — pump and fan check
• Every 100,000 km — radiator integrity check
• As needed — damaged hose replacement

Proper Vehicle Operation

• Don’t allow engine to overheat
• Don’t stop engine immediately after intense driving
• Use recommended cooling liquid
• Don’t dilute antifreeze incorrectly
• Avoid dirt getting into system when opening expansion tank

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Never open radiator cap on hot engine
• Don’t use regular water instead of antifreeze
• Don’t mix different coolant types
• Don’t ignore overheating warnings
• Don’t drive with low coolant level

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooling System

Q: How often should coolant be changed?
A: Typically every 30,000-40,000 km or once every 2-3 years, depending on your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.

Q: Why is green (or pink) liquid dripping from under my car?
A: This indicates coolant leak. Color depends on antifreeze type. You should immediately contact service center.

Q: Can I drive with engine overheating?
A: Absolutely not! This can cause serious engine damage. Stop and allow engine to cool.

Q: What does sweet liquid smell from car mean?
A: This is typical antifreeze smell indicating coolant leak. Urgent diagnostics required.

Q: Can cooling system cause icing problems in freezing weather?
A: Yes, if regular water is used instead of antifreeze. That’s why proper antifreeze is necessary in winter.

Q: What does it mean if cooling fan runs constantly?
A: This may indicate temperature sensor problem or high engine operating temperature. Diagnostics required.

Q: How much does radiator replacement cost?
A: Cost depends on vehicle model and radiator type. Usually from €150 to €600.

Q: Why does cooling fan make strange noises?
A: This may indicate blade damage, bearing wear or foreign objects caught inside. Immediate diagnostics required.

Insurance and Warranties

At Autograph BVS we provide:

✓ Work guarantee — all completed work guaranteed for 12 months or 20,000 km

✓ Spare parts warranty — all used parts have manufacturer warranty

✓ Free re-diagnostics — if problem repeats within warranty period

✓ Work insurance — all work insured under appropriate conditions

Why Choose Autograph BVS?

Our car service center in Finestrat, Alicante offers best combination of quality, price and convenience:

Professional Experience — over 15 years of experience in vehicle cooling system diagnostics and repair

Full Range of Services — from diagnostics to complete repair and component replacement

Modern Technologies — using latest diagnostic scanners and equipment for accurate diagnostics

Original Spare Parts — only quality parts with manufacturer warranty

Honest Prices — transparent pricing without hidden fees

Professional Team — experienced mechanics with specialized training

Customer Care — we listen to your problems and offer best solutions

Quick Service — work efficiently to return your vehicle as soon as possible

Free Consultation — provide complete information about your cooling system condition

Contact Information

Autograph BVS — your reliable partner in vehicle cooling system repairs

Address: Finestrat, Alicante, Spain

Specialists: Experienced mechanics and diagnosticians

Service: Complete cooling system diagnostics and repair range

Contact us today for professional diagnostics and repair of your cooling system!