New Level Auto Service repairs cooling systems and replaces radiators at our shop at 716 E Gude Dr in Rockville, MD. If your car is overheating, leaking coolant or the temperature gauge is climbing, we find the cause and fix it before it damages the engine. Call (301) 762-1200.
- ASE-certified mechanics
- 20+ years of experience
- Licensed MD inspection station
- All makes and models
- Se habla español
Signs of a cooling system problem
- The temperature gauge runs hot. If the needle climbs above normal or a warning light comes on, pull over and turn the engine off before it overheats.
- Steam from under the hood. That usually means coolant is boiling over or leaking onto hot parts.
- Puddles of green, orange or pink fluid. Coolant leaks can come from the radiator, hoses, water pump or heater core.
- A sweet smell. Coolant has a sweet smell. Smelling it inside or outside the car usually means a leak.
- You keep adding coolant. Coolant doesn’t get used up. If the level keeps dropping, it’s going somewhere.
- The heater blows cold. Low coolant or a stuck thermostat can leave you with no heat in the winter.
Finding why your car overheats
The cooling system moves coolant between the engine and the radiator to carry heat away. When any part of that loop fails, the engine can overheat quickly.
- Radiator
- Hoses and clamps
- Water pump
- Thermostat
- Cooling fans
- Coolant condition and leaks
Overheating can warp the cylinder head and blow the head gasket, which turns a simple repair into a big one. That’s why it’s worth fixing a leak or a bad part as soon as you notice it.
Overheating can damage the engine
If the engine has already overheated, we can check for head gasket and other engine damage. See our engine repair page for more.
Why Rockville drivers bring their cars to us
New Level Auto Service is owned by Christian, a mechanic with more than 20 years of experience. The shop has been in Rockville for over 10 years, and our mechanics are ASE certified.
- 20+ yrsHands-on experience behind the owner
- 10+ yrsServing drivers in Rockville
- ASECertified mechanics
- EN / ESWe speak English and Spanish
Cooling system FAQ
Why is my car overheating?
Common causes are a coolant leak, a bad radiator, a failed water pump, a stuck thermostat, or a cooling fan that isn’t working. We check the system part by part to find the cause.
Is it safe to drive an overheating car?
No. Pull over, turn the engine off and let it cool. Driving while overheating can warp the engine and blow the head gasket. Call us, and we have 24-hour emergency towing if you need it.
How do I know if my radiator needs to be replaced?
Signs include coolant leaks from the radiator, visible corrosion or damage, overheating, and sludge in the coolant. We can check it and tell you if a repair or replacement makes sense.
Why do I keep losing coolant?
Coolant is a closed system, so if the level keeps dropping, there’s a leak somewhere, either an outside leak like a hose or radiator, or an internal one like a head gasket.
Do I need an appointment?
Walk-ins are welcome. If your car is overheating, call us first at (301) 762-1200 so we can tell you whether it’s safe to drive in.
Bring your car in
New Level Auto Service, 716 E Gude Dr, Rockville, MD 20850. Walk-ins are welcome, but calling ahead gets you faster service.
- Phone (301) 762-1200
- Hours Monday to Friday 8 AM to 5 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 2 PM
- Extras Night drop available and 24-hour emergency towing
- Payment Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express
