Radiators are a critical part of your car’s cooling system, so a leak of any kind is cause for concern. The leading cause of radiator leaks is corrosion. Other common causes include poor maintenance and the use of substandard coolants. Radiator leaks can also result from a bad thermostat or thermal core.
If not fixed in good time, a radiator leak will make it harder for your car’s cooling system to do its job, and your engine will overheat. Inordinately high engine temperatures can blow the head gasket, crack the block and cause further damage to the radiator – none of which are cheap to repair. Radiator leaks are therefore something you want to spot as soon as possible. Here are some common signs of a radiator leak.
Low Coolant Levels
Low coolant levels are an obvious indicator of radiator leaks (hopefully, you’ve made a habit of checking the appropriate reservoir). If your engine is in good condition and doesn’t have any leaks, coolant levels should drop by no more than 0.25 ounces a month. If coolant levels are falling faster than this, your radiator may be leaking.
White Exhaust Smoke
If your coolant levels are falling faster than usual and the exhaust smoke of your car is white, a leaking radiator is often the culprit. The white smoke is the result of leaking coolant seeping into your engine and getting burnt.
Leaking Coolant Fluid
Found a puddle of green, sweet-smelling liquid under your car? That’s cooler fluid, and it is an indicator that your radiator – or a hose attached to it – has sprung a leak.
Discolored Spots on the Radiator
Discolored spots are another telltale sign of a leaking radiator. They are the end result of a process that starts with coolant seeping through holes in your radiator and then evaporating, leaving behind spots that may eventually start rusting.
Closing Thoughts
Radiator leaks can cause serious problems if they are not fixed in time. For this reason, if you note any of the signs in the list above, see a mechanic as quickly as possible. Solutions depend on the nature of the problem. Temporary fixes, such as commercial stop leak products, can help, although they have their downsides. More permanent solutions include epoxy sealants, and for copper and brass radiators, soldering or welding. However, if your radiator is in particularly bad shape, replacement may be the only option.