OEM Coolant Reservoir for 2020-2025 Buick & Chevrolet • Encore GX, Envista, Trailblazer, Trax

What to Look For

• Material: Ensure the reservoir is made of durable, heat-resistant plastic.
• Fit: Verify it is designed for your specific vehicle model and year.
• Condition: Check for cracks, leaks, or damage, especially with used parts.
• Cap: Make sure the cap is included and in good working order.

Quality Indicators

• OEM markings: Original Equipment Manufacturer parts are generally higher quality.
• Reputation: Check reviews or ratings of the part or seller.
• Warranty: A warranty indicates the seller's confidence in the part's quality.

What's Included

• The coolant reservoir itself.
• A new cap (sometimes).
• Sometimes, a coolant level sensor.

Difficulty Level and Estimated Time

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Estimated Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Special Tools Needed

• Screwdrivers (various sizes)
• Pliers
• Drain pan
• Coolant (compatible with your vehicle)

Critical Steps and Tips

1. Safety First: Allow the engine to cool completely before starting.
2. Drain Coolant: Partially drain the cooling system to prevent spills.
3. Disconnect Hoses: Carefully disconnect the hoses connected to the reservoir.
4. Remove Reservoir: Unbolt or unclip the old reservoir and remove it.
5. Install New Reservoir: Install the new reservoir and reconnect the hoses.
6. Refill Coolant: Refill the cooling system with the correct type of coolant.
7. Bleed System: Bleed any air from the cooling system.

DIY or Professional Installation?

• DIY is possible for mechanically inclined individuals.
• Professional installation is recommended if you are not comfortable working on your car's cooling system.

Compare: Used OEM, Refurbished OEM, New Aftermarket

• Used OEM: Genuine factory parts, tested and inspected, at significantly lower prices.
• Refurbished OEM: Factory parts professionally restored with new components.
• New Aftermarket: Brand new third-party parts built to OE specs.

Used OEM

• Best value option.
• Genuine factory part.
• Tested and inspected for functionality.
• Lower price compared to new.

Refurbished OEM

• Factory part restored to like-new condition.
• May include new components.
• Reliable performance.

New Aftermarket

• Brand new part.
• Built to meet or exceed OE specifications.
• Wide range of brands and price points.

Parts Commonly Replaced or Checked

• Radiator cap
• Coolant hoses
• Thermostat
• Water pump

Preventing Repeat Failures

• Replacing the radiator cap ensures proper system pressure.
• Inspecting coolant hoses for leaks prevents coolant loss.
• A faulty thermostat can cause overheating, damaging the reservoir.
• A failing water pump can cause overheating and coolant circulation issues.

How Long This Part Normally Lasts

• Typically lasts 5-10 years or 100,000-150,000 miles.

Factors That Affect Longevity

• Climate: Extreme temperatures can shorten lifespan.
• Coolant type: Using the wrong coolant can cause corrosion.
• Maintenance: Regular coolant flushes can extend lifespan.
• Driving habits: Aggressive driving can put more stress on the cooling system.

Budget vs Mid-Range vs Premium Options

• Used OEM: $30 - $75
• Refurbished OEM: $50 - $100
• New Aftermarket: $40 - $120

Labor Cost Considerations

• Labor costs typically range from $50 - $150, depending on the shop and location.

Total Job Cost Estimates

• DIY: $30 - $120 (parts only)
• Professional Installation: $80 - $270 (parts and labor)

Known Issues

• Some models have reported cracking near the hose connections.
• Check for coolant leaks after driving in extreme heat.

TSBs or Common Complaints

• There may be Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to coolant leaks in the cooling system. Check with your dealer or online resources.

How to Confirm Proper Operation

• Check coolant level after driving.
• Monitor engine temperature gauge.
• Inspect for leaks around the reservoir and hoses.

What to Look/Listen For

• No coolant leaks.
• Stable engine temperature.
• No overheating.
• No coolant warning lights.

Q: How do I know if my coolant reservoir is leaking?
A: Look for visible coolant leaks, a low coolant level warning light, or a sweet smell coming from the engine compartment.

Q: Can I drive with a cracked coolant reservoir?
A: It is not recommended. A cracked reservoir can cause coolant loss and lead to overheating, which can severely damage your engine.

Q: What type of coolant should I use?
A: Use the coolant specified in your vehicle's owner's manual. Using the wrong coolant can damage the cooling system.

Q: How often should I replace my coolant reservoir?
A: Replace it if it is cracked, leaking, or damaged. Otherwise, inspect it regularly for signs of wear.

Q: Is it easy to replace the coolant reservoir myself?
A: It's generally a straightforward repair, but requires some mechanical knowledge and basic tools. If you're not comfortable, a professional can handle it.

OEM Part Numbers:

• GM: 13530506, 13537034, 13545831

Fits Years: 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025