Why Does the Coolant Always Run Low?
2 Answers
The main reasons for the coolant always running low are as follows: 1. Leakage: Generally, there are very obvious traces at the leakage point. 2. Poor circulation leading to rapid consumption: You can ask a professional technician to check it. When adding coolant, it should be done after the engine temperature has cooled down. During the process, start the engine and gently press the accelerator to expel air from the system. 3. After the water temperature rises, the steam inside the water passages pushes the coolant out of the overflow tank. It could also be due to a malfunctioning water pump or thermostat, causing high water temperature in the circulation system, leading to excessive pressure in the radiator and cooling system, which results in the coolant flowing out from the overflow tank.
I've been driving for almost ten years and have encountered the issue of coolant loss several times. The most common causes are minor leaks, such as cracks in the corners of the radiator or aging hoses splitting open. Once, after parking, I noticed pink stains under the engine—turned out the radiator connection was loose, allowing fluid to seep out quietly. A damaged water pump seal is another frequent culprit, causing coolant to leak from the front end, which isn’t obvious at first but adds up over time. Worse yet are internal engine problems, like a blown head gasket, where coolant enters the combustion chamber and burns off, producing white smoke from the exhaust with a sweet smell. Normal evaporation leads to minimal monthly loss, but if you find yourself constantly topping up the coolant, it’s a red flag. I recommend checking the ground for stains after parking and ensuring the radiator cap is tightly secured. If you can’t fix it yourself, head to a repair shop for a pressure test—ignoring it could lead to engine overheating and severe damage. Regular maintenance, including coolant replacement, can prevent many of these issues.
