Can You Drive with a Coolant Leak?

[McBrandon]

If the coolant is only leaking slightly, you can continue driving. Some older vehicle models may experience minor coolant leakage due to aging and cracked radiator seals, allowing the car to remain roadworthy. However, it is essential to monitor the engine temperature gauge. If the temperature rises excessively, stop the vehicle immediately for inspection, and promptly check and replace any damaged components while replenishing the coolant. Coolant Replacement Method: Drain the old coolant and flush the fluid channels with clean water. Add water to the coolant reservoir, then continuously pour water into the reservoir to allow it to circulate through the engine cooling system. Start the engine and let it idle for 3 to 5 minutes to facilitate water circulation. Initially, the water draining from the reservoir may appear slightly pinkish. Continue adding clean water until the drained water runs clear. Remember to disconnect the heater hose to drain any remaining water from the heater core. After approximately 1 hour of draining, add new coolant through the radiator hose to ensure rapid flow into the radiator. Next, fill the coolant reservoir with another batch of coolant until it is nearly full. Start the engine and let it run for about 10 minutes. As air is purged from the cooling system, the coolant level will drop slightly. Top up the coolant to the "MAX" mark on the reservoir. Function of Coolant: Coolant is a specially formulated fluid used primarily in liquid-cooled engine cooling systems. It offers excellent properties such as freeze protection in winter, boil-over prevention in summer, and year-round resistance to scale and corrosion. The full name of coolant should be "antifreeze coolant," indicating its dual function as both an antifreeze and a cooling agent. Coolant prevents the freezing of the cooling liquid during cold winter stops, which could otherwise cause radiator cracks or damage to the engine block or cylinder head.