Is a Car Leaking Coolant a Serious Problem?
2 Answers
Coolant leakage leading to insufficient levels will result in reduced cooling efficiency, increased engine temperature, and in severe cases, engine damage. Below is relevant information: 1. Engine: Coolant leakage can cause engine malfunctions. Coolant is essential for dissipating engine heat. When coolant levels drop due to leakage, engine temperature rises progressively, potentially leading to cylinder scuffing. Aluminum engines are particularly temperature-sensitive and can overheat and deform unexpectedly, causing severe failures. 2. Flammability: Coolant leakage also poses safety risks. Unlike water, coolant crystallizes when dried, and these crystals are highly flammable. Since engines generate high temperatures during operation, igniting these crystals is extremely easy. Therefore, many manufacturers' repair manuals explicitly warn against leaving coolant residue on the vehicle body to prevent safety hazards.
A coolant leak is indeed a serious issue, and I often encounter this problem from a repair perspective. Coolant is primarily used to cool the engine. If it leaks, the engine can overheat and get damaged, and in winter, it may even freeze and harm components. The leak could be from the radiator, water pump, or hoses. When inspecting it yourself, you might notice green or pink fluid on the ground or a significant drop in the fluid level. If not repaired promptly, an engine overhaul could cost thousands of dollars. I recommend stopping the car immediately and taking it to a professional shop for inspection, sealing the leak, or replacing parts. It’s not worth letting a small issue turn into a major one. During regular maintenance, check the fluid level periodically, especially for older cars, which are more prone to leaks. Prevention is much cheaper than repairs, and safety should always come first.
