How to Inspect and Repair Coolant Leaks?
2 Answers
Methods for handling coolant leaks: 1. First, open the car's hood. Every car has a coolant reservoir. Locate this reservoir, which has marked level lines. Check the position of the coolant level relative to these lines. If the level is below the marked line, it indicates a shortage of coolant. 2. Next, check if there is a coolant leak. If the leak is severe, you may notice water under the engine area. Touch it—if it feels oily and is red in color, it is likely coolant. In this case, proceed directly to repairs. 3. Sometimes, minor leaks are hard to detect with the naked eye in a short time. In some cases, engine overhauls are necessary due to cylinder damage caused by insufficient coolant. 4. At night, place a newspaper under the engine before parking. Check the newspaper the next day—if you find oily water stains, it confirms a minor coolant leak. This method is effective for detecting small leaks.
I think troubleshooting coolant leaks can start with basic checks. After parking, pop the hood and first check if the coolant reservoir level is dropping too quickly, then look for colored wet spots on the ground. Common leak points are hose connections, water pumps, or radiators, as these areas are prone to aging and cracking. When handling it myself, I use a pressure tester to pressurize the cooling system, making it easier to listen for hissing sounds or spot leaks. For minor issues like loose hoses, just tighten them or replace the hose; but for major leaks like a faulty water pump, it's best to visit a professional shop for part replacement. Never delay repairs—leaking coolant can cause engine overheating or even a blown head gasket, leading to costlier repairs. It's wise to inspect the cooling system every six months and top up with fresh coolant to prevent leaks, saving both money and hassle in the long run.
