How to Repair a Car Radiator Leak?
2 Answers
Check for signs of oil emulsification (cylinder head gasket failure or erosion). If present, disassemble the engine and replace the cylinder head gasket. After 5~10 minutes of initiating the major circulation, any leaks in the cooling system—whether from the radiator, rubber hoses, or gaskets—will cease. You can promptly use a screwdriver to wrap the rubber hose connector clamp around the hose joint and then tighten it with pliers.
Last week, my car's radiator was leaking, what a hassle. At first, I noticed small water stains under the car, with the ground wet after parking overnight. Upon closer inspection, there was a small crack at the corner of the radiator. I recalled often driving on dirt roads, where sand and debris entering the cooling system can corrode and cause leaks. As a temporary fix, I used a specialized automotive radiator stop-leak liquid, which seals small cracks when poured into the coolant and driven around. However, this was just a temporary solution. Later, I took it to a friend's repair shop to replace the radiator completely. They drained the old antifreeze, flushed the system clean, and installed a new one. It cost a few hundred, but it was worth the peace of mind. Now I've learned my lesson: when washing the car, I also clean the cooling system vents to prevent blockages. If the radiator is severely damaged, replace it immediately to avoid engine damage from overheating. I recommend not attempting major repairs yourself—minor fixes are fine, but for significant leaks, seek professional help.
