What are the causes of engine coolant leakage?
3 Answers
Engine coolant leakage can be caused by: 1. Sand holes in the engine block: If this occurs, the owner needs to replace it as soon as possible. 2. Poor quality of the antifreeze added to the vehicle: This can lead to engine coolant leakage during vehicle use. An engine is a machine that converts other forms of energy into mechanical energy. The first external combustion engine was invented by R. Stirling in the UK (Scotland), and later improved by Watt into a steam engine. Engines can be used as power generation devices or refer to the entire machine including the power unit (such as gasoline engines, aircraft engines). Their types include internal combustion engines (such as gasoline engines), external combustion engines (such as Stirling engines, steam engines), gas turbines (for racing cars), electric motors, etc.
Engine coolant leakage, based on my years of driving and repair experience, is usually caused by cooling system failures. For example, radiator aging or cracks leading to fluid leakage, which is especially common in older vehicles; aging or hardening of rubber or plastic hoses that are prone to cracking, particularly during high-temperature seasons; damaged water pump seals, where excessive vibration from the pump's operation can cause leaks if the seal isn't tight; frequent leaks around the thermostat; and coolant leakage from the heater core inside the engine compartment. If the engine cylinder head gasket ages or fails, it can leak coolant outside the cylinders. Initially, the leakage might just be small drops, but ignoring it can lead to coolant loss, a sudden rise in water temperature, and in severe cases, engine cylinder scuffing, requiring major repairs. To detect leaks, observe if there are colored liquid stains on the ground after parking (coolant is usually green or pink), and regularly check the radiator water level as a preventive measure.
Last time my car was leaking water, and it turned out to be caused by a broken drain pipe. While driving, I noticed the water temperature fluctuating up and down. After stopping, I saw water stains on the ground. Upon inspection at the repair shop, the hose connection was found to be loose. The mechanic said common causes also include radiator corrosion with small holes, water pump failure, or a loose thermostat housing. Other possibilities such as heater core leakage or water jacket cracks may also occur. If leaks are not repaired in time, the engine temperature can rise rapidly, leading to dangerous boiling and smoking, and may even cause chain damage. It is recommended to develop a habit of checking the coolant level every time you refuel to ensure there are no abnormalities. Changing the coolant every two years can help prevent corrosion.
