Cooling System Services

Your cooling system is located in your car’s engine bay, typically at the front of your vehicle. It is designed to regulate your engine’s running temperature, prevent it from overheating and is made up of several parts that work together:
 

• Radiator – Located behind the car’s front grill, your radiator dissipates heat from the coolant.
 

• Coolant Reservoir (Overflow Tank) – A translucent plastic tank, usually near the radiator, where excess coolant is stored.
 

• Water Pump – Usually attached to the engine block and driven by a belt that is responsible for circulating coolant through the system.
 

• Thermostat – Normally between the engine and the radiator, your thermostat regulates the flow of coolant based on your engine’s internal temperature.
 

• Radiator Hoses – Large rubber hoses connecting the radiator to the engine for coolant circulation.
 

• Cooling Fans – Mounted on or near the radiator to help cool the coolant, especially when your car is stationary.
 

Regular maintenance, including timely coolant changes, inspecting hoses and belts for wear, and ensuring the radiator is free from obstructions, can help prevent cooling system problems.

Australia's hot weather climate places significant pressure on cooling systems, making regular maintenance essential to prevent overheating. Lube Mobile’s team of qualified mobile mechanics are able to perform a wide range of repairs on you car’s cooling systems.
 

Here are some symptoms to look out for:
 

• Temperature gage on the dashboard is high
 

• Engine is overheating
 

• Steam coming from the bonnet
 

• A musty/sweet smell coming from the car
 

• Engine coolant level is low
 

• Fuel efficiency has dropped
 

• You notice a coolant leak (bright coloured liquid) under your car
 

If you notice any of the above symptoms, book a routine service or repair today. We'll come to you, diagnose your car's problem and give you an itemised quote before we do any work.

A car radiator is a crucial part of the engine cooling system. Its job is simple but essential: keep the engine at the correct operating temperature and prevent overheating. Knowing what’s inside a radiator and how it works makes it easier to spot cooling system problems early.
 

What’s Inside a Radiator?
 

Coolant (Antifreeze + Water Mix)
The coolant circulates through the radiator and engine. It absorbs heat from the engine and releases it through the radiator’s cooling fins.
 

Tubes and Cooling
Fins Hot coolant flows through thin metal tubes. Attached fins increase surface area, helping heat escape quickly as air passes over them.
 

Plastic or Metal Tanks 
Located on the sides or top/bottom of the radiator, these tanks hold coolant as it enters and exits the radiator core.
 

Pressure Cap 
The radiator cap keeps the cooling system pressurised, allowing coolant to operate at higher temperatures without boiling. 

Built‑In Transmission Cooler (Some Vehicles) 
Many automatic cars include a small heat exchanger inside the radiator to help cool transmission fluid. 

How Does a Radiator Work?

1. Coolant Absorbs Engine Heat As the engine runs, coolant moves through the engine block, picking up heat.
 

2. Hot Coolant Enters the Radiator The water pump pushes heated coolant into the radiator’s narrow tubes.
 

3. Airflow Removes Heat Airflow—either from driving or the electric cooling fan—passes over the fins, pulling heat away from the coolant.
 

4. Cooled Coolant Returns to the Engine Once cooled, the coolant flows back into the engine to repeat the cycle.
 

5. Thermostat Regulates Temperature The thermostat opens and closes to maintain the engine’s ideal operating temperature.
 

Need Help With Your Cooling System?

If your car is overheating, losing coolant, or running hotter than normal, Lube Mobile’s mobile mechanics can diagnose and repair cooling system issues at your home or workplace, saving you the hassle of a workshop visit.

It's advisable to inspect coolant levels regularly, ideally every few weeks, and before long trips. Always check when the engine is cold to ensure accurate readings.
 

Regularly changing your car’s radiator coolant protects the cooling system from rust and scale deposits, which can reduce coolant circulation and lead to overheating.
 

While water can be used in emergencies, it's not recommended for long-term use. Coolant contains additives that prevent corrosion and raise the boiling point, offering better protection for your engine.
 

Need a mobile mechanic?

Book a mobile service or mobile repair today. Every van is equipped to deal with a wide range of issues and all our work is backed by Lube Mobile's 12 month / 20,000km warranty on parts and labour.

The best coolant for your car depends on the vehicle’s make, model, and cooling system design. Choosing the correct coolant protects your engine from overheating, corrosion, and premature wear, so using the right type is essential.

1. Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendation

Your owner’s manual lists the exact coolant type your engine requires. Modern engines are engineered to work with specific formulations, so this is always the safest and most reliable choice.

2. Know the Main Types of Coolant
 

Green Coolant (IAT – Inorganic Additive Technology)

• Common in older vehicles

• Requires more frequent replacement
 

Red / Pink Coolant (OAT – Organic Acid Technology)

• Used in many modern cars

• Long‑life formula designed for aluminium engines
 

Blue / Hybrid Coolant (HOAT or P‑HOAT)

• Often used in European and some Asian vehicles

• Offers extended life and strong corrosion protection

3. Don’t Mix Coolant Types

Mixing coolant types can cause sludge, corrosion, or reduced cooling performance. If you’re unsure what’s currently in your system, a full coolant flush is recommended before adding new coolant.

4. Consider Your Driving Conditions

Hot climates, towing, heavy loads, and stop‑start city driving all increase engine heat. In these situations, using a high‑quality coolant that meets your vehicle’s exact specifications becomes even more important.

Not Sure Which Coolant Your Car Needs?

Lube Mobile’s mobile mechanics can identify the correct coolant for your vehicle and top it up or replace it on‑site at your home or workplace. If you need help choosing the right coolant or booking a service, they can take care of everything wherever you are.