Why is water bubbling out of the car radiator?
2 Answers
Reasons for water bubbling out of the car radiator: 1. Engine overheating or high pressure can cause water overflow, or a damaged cylinder head gasket can also lead to water bubbling; 2. A faulty radiator cap, which contains a one-way valve, can cause water to bubble out if it's damaged; 3. Air trapped in the radiator or engine that is difficult to expel, or loose hose seals allowing air to enter, can cause coolant to be forced out of the radiator during circulation by the air pressure; 4. A cracked engine cylinder liner can allow compressed gas from the cylinder to forcibly push coolant out of the radiator during operation. The car radiator, also known as the heat exchanger, is a key component in the car's cooling system. Its function is to dissipate heat. The coolant absorbs heat in the water jacket, flows to the radiator to release the heat, and then returns to the water jacket in a continuous cycle.
I once experienced water gushing out from the radiator. During a long-distance drive, steam suddenly erupted from under the hood, which gave me quite a scare. Later, upon investigation, the main causes were either insufficient coolant or a leak, leading to the radiator overheating and boiling. This is particularly common in summer. If the radiator is clogged or the water pump fails, similar issues can occur. I've learned that regularly checking the coolant level is crucial—monthly inspections to ensure the level is within the marked range are essential. Additionally, if the fan stops working and can't dissipate heat, the engine can overheat. That time, I pulled over and waited for about half an hour for the car to cool down before slowly adding water. Fortunately, the engine wasn't damaged. Routine maintenance shouldn't be neglected; using proper coolant mixed with distilled water yields the best results. Remember to address such issues promptly—if you continue driving with the radiator boiling over, the engine might overheat and warp, leading to expensive repairs. Safety first; if you encounter similar problems, handle them calmly and don't rush.
