How to Repair Engine Coolant Leakage?
3 Answers
The only solution is to replace major components such as the engine block or radiator, which will significantly impact the vehicle's future performance. Therefore, maintaining proper fluid levels is fundamental to ensuring normal vehicle operation, requiring regular inspections and timely replacements. Relevant details are as follows: 1. Coolant: Also known as antifreeze, coolant is a liquid composed of antifreeze additives, anti-corrosion agents for metals, and water. It must possess properties such as freeze resistance, corrosion prevention, heat conductivity, and stability. Currently, ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with anti-corrosion additives is commonly used. Insufficient coolant levels may lead to potential engine damage. 2. Handling Radiator Leaks: If the leakage is severe, it is not advisable to continue driving forcibly, as engine damage during transit would be counterproductive. In such cases, the vehicle should be towed to a 4S shop for prompt repair. For minor leaks, a temporary top-up with distilled water is acceptable, but mineral water is not recommended due to its mineral content, which can affect cooling efficiency. Drive at low speed to the 4S shop and repair the radiator as soon as possible.
I've been driving for over thirty years and have encountered the issue of coolant leaking into the engine several times. Usually, it's due to a blown cylinder head gasket, allowing coolant to seep into the combustion chamber. Fixing this isn't a minor job—it requires disassembling the engine and carefully inspecting the cylinder block and head for cracks. If it's just the gasket, replacing it will suffice; but if there's a crack, welding or replacing the entire part may be necessary. Never force the engine to run under these conditions, as it could lead to complete engine failure and even greater losses. I always recommend towing the vehicle to a professional repair shop. They'll use a pressure tester to locate the leak, clean out internal oil sludge, and replace the engine oil and coolant as part of the process. For prevention, regular maintenance of the cooling system is key—don’t let old coolant corrode the gasket. Remember, delaying repairs only worsens the problem; addressing it promptly saves money and ensures peace of mind.
Last year, my car had an issue where white smoke and warning alarms appeared when coolant entered the engine. I immediately towed it for repairs. The mechanic confirmed it was caused by a damaged cylinder head gasket. The repair process was complex—after disassembly, a new gasket was installed and the internals were cleaned, taking two days. Although it cost a few hundred dollars, it was better than ignoring the problem. The lesson was clear: regularly check the engine oil color; if it appears milky or has a sweet smell, it’s a warning sign. During maintenance, always inspect the coolant level, as it can prevent most leakage issues. Now, I monitor the system quarterly, and the problem hasn’t recurred. In short, stopping and seeking help is much wiser than taking risks—safety comes first when driving.
