What Are the Common Causes of Water Leakage in a Car Radiator?
3 Answers
Common causes of water leakage in a car radiator include the detachment of the radiator core from the plastic joint on the side of the radiator. The function of the car radiator is to dissipate heat. The coolant absorbs heat in the water jacket, flows to the radiator to release the heat, and then returns to the water jacket to complete the cycle, thereby regulating the temperature. Below is more information about car radiators: 1. Introduction: The car radiator, also known as the heat exchanger, is a key component of the car's cooling system and is part of the car engine. 2. Working Principle: When the engine's water temperature is high, the water pump circulates the coolant repeatedly to lower the engine's temperature and protect the engine. In winter, if the water temperature is too low, the circulation stops to prevent the engine from becoming too cold.
I often help friends check car issues, and radiator leaks are way too common. The main culprit is the aging and rusting of the radiator body itself, especially after using low-quality coolant, as corrosion gradually eats away at the metal. Another issue is loose or cracked hose connections, usually caused by repeated thermal expansion and contraction in high-temperature environments. Additionally, minor collisions or road debris impacts can directly crack the radiator. My advice: if you notice colored liquid (like green or pink) leaking from under the car when parked, check the leak point immediately. Don’t rush to drive—overheating can damage the engine. During routine maintenance, keep an eye on the coolant level to ensure it’s stable. Prevention always saves money and hassle.
As someone who has been driving for a long time, I've encountered radiator leaks several times. Common causes include hardened and cracked hose connections due to aging, which is a normal issue from road vibrations. Cracks in the radiator itself can be caused by corrosion or temperature changes. Once, I neglected to change the coolant, and the aging seal caused a leak that led to overheating and a breakdown on the highway—it was quite stressful. I recommend car owners check the radiator fluid level monthly and use proper coolant to prevent premature aging. If you notice signs of a leak, slow down and pull over immediately to address it before it escalates into major engine damage.
