What Causes Water Leakage in the Engine Compartment?
2 Answers
Water leakage in the engine compartment can be caused by burst water pipes, loose connections, or damaged gaskets. Burst water pipes: In winter, if antifreeze is not added, cold water can freeze and crack, starting from the car's water pipes. A long time without cleaning or changing the water in the radiator can also lead to perforation under the pressure of the water pump's circulation. Solution: Replace the water pipes promptly or seek professional repair at a 4S shop. Loose connections: Overly loose connections can cause slippage, leading directly to misalignment; overly tight connections increase tension, making them prone to breakage under high load, resulting in water leakage in the engine compartment. Solution: It is recommended to immediately go to a repair shop for inspection and repair. Damaged gaskets: A malfunction in the water circulation system prevents water from circulating normally, causing the engine's internal water temperature to rise excessively and vaporize, forming high-pressure steam that breaks through the cylinder gasket and enters the engine interior, leading to water leakage in the engine compartment. Solution: Seek professional repair at a 4S shop promptly.
When I first started driving, I encountered this issue, and there are actually quite a few reasons behind it. The most common one is a leaking or cracked radiator. Those plastic connectors can loosen and leak coolant as they age, especially when they contract in winter and are prone to cracking. A failed water pump seal is another common culprit, with drips appearing under the engine. Then there are the hoses; rubber ones can crack and leak over time, particularly after driving on hot roads where it's more noticeable. Condensation from the air conditioning can also drip into the engine bay during humid weather, which isn’t usually a big deal, but if the coolant turns pink or green, that’s a red flag. I recommend car owners regularly pop the hood and check all connections and hoses for integrity. A leak might seem minor, but it can lead to engine overheating or even a blown head gasket—definitely not something to ignore.
