Can You Still Drive with a Coolant Leak?
2 Answers
Whether you can drive with a coolant leak depends on the following three leakage scenarios: 1. If the coolant is leaking slightly, you can continue driving. Some older vehicle models may experience minor coolant leakage due to aging and cracked radiator seals. In such cases, you can keep driving but must monitor the engine temperature gauge closely. If the temperature rises excessively, stop the vehicle immediately for inspection. 2. If the coolant is leaking severely but some remains in the radiator, the driver must exercise caution. Drive the vehicle slowly at low speed to a qualified repair shop for servicing. Continuing to drive under these conditions may cause engine damage due to overheating. 3. If the coolant has completely drained, the vehicle must not be driven. Contact a nearby repair shop for on-site service before resuming driving.
I know coolant leakage can be a serious issue. Once it leaks, the cooling system won't function properly, and the engine temperature will rise rapidly. If you smell a sweet odor or see steam while driving, pull over immediately to check. I strongly advise against continuing to drive, as engine overheating can cause cylinder explosion or piston seizure, with repair costs starting from at least seven to eight thousand yuan. Temporary fixes like adding distilled water can serve as an emergency measure, but you should only drive three to five kilometers to the repair shop. The source of the leak could be a cracked radiator, aging hoses, or a faulty water pump. Safety first—after stopping, have a professional mechanic diagnose the issue. Don't risk driving further and causing greater damage.
