Why Does the Radiator Lose Water?
2 Answers
The reasons for radiator water loss are: 1. Leakage at hose connections or the hoses themselves; 2. Cracks in the engine block, or a loose/damaged cylinder head gasket; 3. Damaged seals or sand holes in the oil cooler causing water mixing; 4. Loose radiator cap; 5. Leakage in the heater radiator. Radiator maintenance methods include: 1. Avoid contact with any acid, alkali, or other corrosive substances; 2. Use softened hard water to prevent internal clogging and scale formation; 3. During installation, avoid damaging the cooling fins or denting the radiator to maintain its cooling efficiency and sealing performance.
I've driven quite a few cars and found that the most common cause of low coolant level is leaking pipes or connections, especially the rubber hoses in older vehicles. Over time, they age and crack, causing coolant to drip. Another common reason is a failed water pump seal. I once saw a friend's car where the temperature gauge shot up when going uphill, and upon inspection, it was leaking there. Radiator corrosion or loose connections can also lead to gradual coolant loss. If the engine overheats and boils, the coolant can evaporate faster, usually due to a clogged cooling system or a non-functioning fan. More seriously, a blown head gasket can mix coolant with engine oil, not only causing low coolant levels but also damaging the engine. When this happens, I usually stop the engine, check the coolant level, top it up temporarily, and then drive to a repair shop for a thorough inspection. Regular coolant changes during maintenance can prevent these issues—don't wait until the coolant is low to act, as repairs can be costly and affect driving safety. In short, it boils down to leaks, evaporation, or incorrect refills—early detection and resolution are key.
