A coolant leak can be one of the most frustrating issues you experience as a car owner. Coolant leaks need to be addressed because eventually, low coolant will cause your engine to overheat, potentially causing significant damage to your engine, not to mention leaving you with an expensive repair bill. Keep in mind that if your vehicle is low on coolant, you have a leak somewhere in the cooling system. Let’s look at three of the most common causes of coolant leaks.

Coolant Hose Leaks

One of the most common causes of coolant leaks is a damaged coolant hose. The coolant hose transmits coolant from your vehicle’s engine to the radiator and other engine parts. The coolant hose can become cracked or split, especially at the close connections with the water pump or thermostat. Replacing a coolant hose is relatively straightforward, but your auto care professional can help if needed.

Leaks in the Radiator

Your vehicle’s radiator is another common source of leaking coolant. The radiator is a vital component of your car’s engine, allowing heat absorbed by coolant to dissipate before being returned to the engine. Holes or damage to the radiator can happen for several reasons, but it is essential to deal with radiator leaks as soon as they are discovered. It’s best to consult with your mechanic to determine the nature of the repair, and if replacement is recommended, it’s a job best left to the pros.

Leak in the Reservoir

The coolant reservoir is an integral part of your car’s cooling system. The reservoir is a plastic container mounted under your car’s hood in the engine compartment. This container functions as an overflow tank for your vehicle’s coolant. Your car’s engine will need differing amounts of coolant depending on the engine temperature. Therefore, these containers can crack or develop leaks over time and should be inspected to determine if it’s the source of any coolant leaks. Remember, never try to remove the radiator or coolant reservoir cap until your engine has cooled, which can cause serious injury.

A coolant leak can be one of the more irritating issues you may deal with because it can be challenging to pinpoint the cause. However, by starting with the most common causes of coolant leaks, you can save yourself valuable time determining the leak’s source. Consult your auto care professional if your car is low on coolant, which signals that your vehicle is leaking coolant.

The post 3 Most Common Causes of Coolant Leaks (and What to do About it)! appeared first on MDP Diesel.