A Comprehensive Assessment of Your Heating and Cooling System Comprises of:
- Examination of internal controls and blower
- Inspection of radiator coolant temperature, hoses, radiator cap pressure, and thermostat
- Evaluation of the compressor belt
- Thorough inspection of the system and seals for leaks or damage
- Conducting a cooling system pressure test
- Verification that A/C pressure meets manufacturer specifications
- Measurement of the interior vent air temperature
Our Repair and Maintenance Services Include:
Belts
The fan belt, also referred to as a drive belt, connects your vehicle's engine to its front-mounted accessories. This belt is responsible for rotating the water pump and engine fan, ensuring a cool engine environment. Unfortunately, over time, your vehicle's fan belts can dry out and develop cracks, requiring a replacement.
It's important to entrust this kind of task to seasoned professionals. Our mechanics can conduct a thorough inspection of your car's belts, replace any worn ones, and ensure the installed belts are properly adjusted for optimum performance.
Radiators
Radiators serve as heat exchangers, cooling your car's internal combustion engine. They accomplish this by circulating engine coolant through the engine block and then releasing the heat into the atmosphere through radiation.
Radiators consist of a set of tubes through which engine coolant flows, surrounded by fins. When a radiator fails, the excess heat produced by the engine could potentially damage vital engine components. To prevent such issues, it's crucial to have your radiator regularly serviced. For expert radiator maintenance, visit Acheson Auto Works today.
Radiator FAQs
When should the radiator in my car be replaced?
Often, radiators will last for the entire life of a car. On average a radiator lasts 8 to 10 years. However, there are a few factors that can reduce a radiator's working life such as improper maintenance, driving habits and environmental conditions.
When replacing a radiator what else should be replaced?
If you replace your radiator you may need to replace three other parts as well - the thermostat, water pump and heater core. An auto repair professional at Acheson Auto Works will let you know what other parts need to be replaced.
What does radiator service include?
Radiator service starts with draining the system. Then we flush the radiator and engine block, inspecting all hoses to make sure they're not cracked. Next we refill the radiator with fresh coolant and finish by pressure testing the radiator cap and cooling system.
Why is my car engine overheating?
The most common reason a car overheats is a lack of coolant or a coolant leak. However, if you have an older vehicle, it may also indicate that it is time to replace your radiator, thermostat, water pump or heater core. If it continues to be a problem that you can't fix, your best bet is to bring it to our shop in Clive.
Coolant FAQs
When is the coolant temperature too high?
The engine coolant is overheating if it's around 240 to 250 degrees. When the coolant gets this hot a light on your dashboard will come on to alert you. Pull over and turn your car off. The coolant is very hot and under extreme pressure. Do not attempt to remove the radiator cap until the car has cooled.
Why is my coolant light on and what should I do?
If the dashboard light is red, indicating your car is overheating then you should pull over as soon as it is safe to do so and switch off the engine. If the coolant level is low or there is another problem with your cooling system, you could cause serious damage by continuing to drive.
Why is my coolant leaking?
Corrosion within the radiator is the leading cause of a coolant leak. As the radiator tubes get older and weaker, sediment or debris collects inside and causes a leak. The sealing gasket between the tank and the radiator can also wear out, and lead to a leak.
When should I do a coolant flush?
Your vehicle's owner's manual will recommend getting the coolant flushed about every 30,000 miles or three to five years, whichever comes first. Make sure to consult your owner's manual as some outline a more specific interval depending on the vehicle's make and model and your driving habits.
What is the average lifespan of a radiator?
While radiators usually last 8-10 years, some factors can shorten their lifespan. Watch for signs of deterioration to know when replacement is needed.
How do I know what coolant I should use?
Your car's owner's manual provides a wealth of information. Follow the recommendations in your car's owner's manual to the letter unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer or auto repair professionals. It will tell you what type of coolant is best to use in your vehicle. If you don't have a copy of your owner's manual, you can most likely find the information you need on the manufacturer's website.
To learn more about our Heating and Cooling services, call us at 515-223-4300 or request a quote by clicking below:
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What our clients are saying about us
We have established longterm and stable partnerships with various clients thanks to our excellence in solving their automotive needs!
I have ICE COLD AC in my Jeep again!! Thanks to the crew at Acheson Auto Works. Can't tell you how happy I am now.
Yeeeeees...Clive, IA
I needed a last minute oil change and after hearing multiple people talk about Acheson Auto Works on University Blvd I decided to take my car there. I was fit right in and had a very prompt but quality oil change. You cannot get the sincerity or quality anywhere else! The front desk, young lady, was extremely cheerful and very welcoming. Tim, the service manager, was the exact same. After my oil change they advised me of a small issue I may want to address with my car later on, but did not push or make me believe it is worse than it really is. This is exactly what I want out of an auto service center. Because of their honesty and wonderful atmosphere I will always go back to Acheson Auto Works.