Coolant leaks are a major cause of engine overheating and breakdowns. If left unchecked, a leak can damage the radiator, hoses, water pump, or even the engine itself.
This guide covers how to spot coolant leaks, their common causes, and how to prevent costly repairs.
1️⃣ Signs of a Coolant Leak
🔎 How to Tell If Your Car is Leaking Coolant:
✔ Low Coolant Levels – Frequent refilling of coolant
✔ Overheating Engine – Temperature gauge running hot
✔ Sweet Smell – Coolant has a distinct sweet odor
✔ Puddle Under Car – Green, orange, or pink fluid beneath your car
✔ White Exhaust Smoke – Could indicate an internal coolant leak
🚨 Ignoring coolant leaks can lead to engine failure—fix them ASAP!
2️⃣ Common Causes of Coolant Leaks
1. Worn or Cracked Hoses
🛠 Why It Happens:
- Heat and pressure wear down rubber hoses over time.
✅ Fix: Replace damaged hoses and clamps.
2. Radiator Leaks
🛠 Why It Happens:
- Corrosion, cracks, or impact damage.
✅ Fix: Inspect for rust or leaks and replace if needed.
3. Faulty Water Pump
🛠 Why It Happens:
- Worn gaskets or seals cause leaks.
✅ Fix: Replace the water pump if it’s leaking coolant.
4. Blown Head Gasket
🛠 Why It Happens:
- Overheating damages the gasket, allowing coolant to mix with oil.
✅ Fix: A head gasket replacement is required—get it checked ASAP.
3️⃣ How to Prevent Coolant Leaks
✔ Check coolant levels regularly
✔ Inspect hoses, clamps, and the radiator for leaks
✔ Flush the coolant system every 30,000–50,000 miles
✔ Use the correct type of coolant for your vehicle
✔ Never drive an overheating car—pull over and check the coolant
🚨 Preventative maintenance saves you from costly engine damage!
4️⃣ What to Do If You Find a Coolant Leak
📌 Steps to Fix It:
✅ Identify the leak source (hoses, radiator, water pump, or head gasket).
✅ Use a coolant leak sealant for minor leaks.
✅ If the leak is serious, get professional repairs immediately.
💡 Tip: Keep an extra bottle of coolant in your car in case of emergencies!
Need a Cooling System Check? Visit Onsite Auto Services!
🚗 Losing coolant? At Onsite Auto Services, we provide radiator repairs, hose replacements, and full cooling system diagnostics to prevent overheating and engine damage.
📞 Call us today or schedule an appointment online for a coolant system inspection!
“Coolant leak? Learn how to detect, prevent, and fix coolant leaks to avoid overheating and engine damage. Keep your cooling system in top shape!”
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