Why Does a Car Leak Antifreeze?
3 Answers
Common reasons for a car leaking antifreeze are as follows: 1. Radiator damage, poor sealing of the upper and lower water chambers. 2. Loose and poorly sealed connections at the overflow tank, water pump joint surface, and cooling system pipelines. 3. Cylinder gasket damage, excessive flatness deviation or warping of the cylinder head and block joint surface, and loose cylinder head bolts, allowing high-temperature and high-pressure gases from the cylinder to enter the cooling system, leading to rapid coolant consumption. Here is some related information: For maintenance, the coolant should be replaced every one to two years of driving. During routine maintenance, regularly check the antifreeze level and freezing point. If abnormalities are found, promptly replenish or replace it, and identify the cause of the leak for repair.
I remember my car also had a coolant leak issue before. At that time, I found a pool of green liquid under the engine, which was quite alarming. After inspection, it turned out the rubber hose in the cooling system had aged and cracked after five or six years of use – these things become brittle and prone to bursting under high temperatures. Another possible cause could be a faulty seal on the radiator cap, which would loosen and leak with just a light touch. If the leak isn’t detected in time, the engine temperature can skyrocket, leading to overheating or even cylinder head gasket damage, which would cost a fortune to repair. Now, I’ve made it a habit to check the coolant level monthly, feel the hoses for softness before long trips, and check for any oil stains in the parking spot. Preventing problems in advance saves a lot on repair costs and avoids the risk of breaking down on the road.
In the repair industry, this situation is commonly seen. The most frequent causes of coolant leakage are radiator cracks or water pump seal failure, especially in vehicles with over 100,000 kilometers, where metal components experience significant wear. Aging hoses are another culprit, as rubber tubes can crack and leak under thermal cycling. If the connections are loose, it might be due to improper tightening during the last coolant top-up. I recommend using a pressure testing tool to quickly locate leaks—it's cost-effective and efficient. Don't overlook minor issues, as low coolant levels leading to engine overheating can double repair costs. During routine maintenance, glance at the ground for fluid colors—pink or green are telltale signs. Regular upkeep extends your car's lifespan.
