Can You Continue Driving If the Car Radiator Is Leaking?
1 Answers
If you discover a radiator leak while driving, it is advisable not to continue driving. Insufficient or no water in the radiator can prevent the engine from being cooled by water or antifreeze, leading to overheating and potential engine failure. Additionally, a lack of coolant due to the leak can cause the engine temperature to rise excessively, reducing oil viscosity and preventing the formation of a protective oil film between components, thereby increasing wear. Furthermore, excessive pressure in the engine cylinders can cause thermal deformation of various matching parts, especially those made of aluminum. The primary internal cause of a radiator leak is typically damage to the rubber ball valve or aging of the rubber gasket at the valve outlet, which compromises the seal. In such cases, replacement is usually sufficient. If the spherical float in the radiator becomes loose from the water inlet switch, causing the float to be in position while the switch remains open, water may overflow through the vertical drain pipe when full. Tightening the connection between the float and the water valve switch can resolve this issue. Possible causes of radiator leaks include ruptured water hoses, damaged rubber hose joints, cracked radiator cooling tubes, or a broken radiator itself. After inspecting the radiator cap, it is essential to examine the radiator, water hoses, and rubber hoses. Loose rubber hose connections are also a common issue, so checking the hose interfaces first is recommended. If any problems are found, reconnecting or sealing the gaps may be necessary.
