What Causes Water Spray from the Engine Radiator?
2 Answers
Water spray is a mist caused by the crossflow of water and air. Possible causes: Burnt cylinder head gasket; Warped or deformed mating surface between the cylinder head and engine block; Cracked cylinder head or cylinder liner; Loose cylinder head bolts; Damaged or leaking air compressor cylinder gasket or cylinder head. Introduction: The engine radiator, also known as the car radiator or simply the radiator, is a key component in the automotive cooling system. Its function is to dissipate heat. Working principle: When the engine coolant temperature is high, the water pump circulates the coolant to lower the engine temperature (the radiator consists of hollow copper tubes. The hot coolant enters the radiator, gets cooled by airflow, and then circulates back to the engine cylinder walls) to protect the engine. In winter, if the coolant temperature becomes too low, the circulation stops to prevent the engine from becoming excessively cold.
I'm quite familiar with water tank spraying issues. As someone who frequently works with machinery, let me explain in detail. The most common cause is engine overheating, where poor heat dissipation causes a sudden pressure increase in the cooling system, leading to water spraying when the pressure can't be contained. Reasons include a clogged radiator with excessive dust buildup, non-functioning fans causing poor heat dissipation, or insufficient/poor-quality coolant that easily boils and bubbles. More seriously, a blown cylinder head gasket allows combustion gases to enter the coolant system, and the high temperature and pressure can cause sudden spraying. If you notice spraying, immediately stop the vehicle and turn off the engine. Open the hood but keep your distance until it cools down to avoid burn risks. Afterwards, check coolant levels and refill with quality antifreeze - never use tap water as it causes scaling and further clogging. Overall, this issue poses significant hidden dangers. Untreated, it may lead to engine failure. I recommend professional inspection at a certified repair shop without delay to ensure driving safety and avoid more expensive damages.
