DIY: How to Repair a Radiator Leak

Mar 15
06:45

2016

James Blanchard

James Blanchard

  • Share this article on Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter
  • Share this article on Linkedin

A leaking radiator can happen in your car over time, and this requires immediate repair. The most noticeable signs of this condition are the overheating and low coolant level of the engine. Should you continue to drive your automobile with a leaking radiator, you will soon smell a burning coolant underneath the hood of your car. Also, you will see a slimy puddle dripping from your vehicle. This is just the anti-freeze coolant that is dripping from the defective radiator. Fixing it is a simple process that you can do all on your own, if you know some basic skills in car mechanics.

mediaimage

Depending on your car model,DIY: How to Repair a Radiator Leak Articles you will see whether the radiator is made from aluminum or copper. If you know the functionality and location of a radiator, then you have no trouble fixing it immediately. Many people prefer to use duct tape and ground black pepper for temporary repair. You may also opt for a radiator leak sealant that is particularly meant for repairing a leaky radiator. Follow these easy steps to fix it right away:

  • The first thing you should do is to find the exact leaky spot. Look for a puddle or a hole in the radiator. A simple solution is to wash the radiator and the hose with water to be able to find the leakage. You may also put the radiator inside a tub filled with water and check for any air bubbles getting out from the car radiator.
  • Next, you will need to patch up the leakage. If the leak is found in the hose pipe, a duct tape is a good approach to fix the condition. In case the leakage is within the radiator itself, then work with a radiator leak sealant, according to the instructions given in the kit. If you opt to use pepper powder, pour 1 to 2 teaspoons of it in the radiator. Pepper powder is an effective sealant that instantly lodges in the leakage. The pepper swells up once it comes in contact with water, therefore repairing the leak efficiently.VinAudit.com provides an inexpensive VIN decoder reports for second-hand cars in the United States. VinAudit is an authorized consumer access service provider for National Motor Vehicle Title Information System(NMVTIS).
  • After you have used the pepper powder or the radiator sealant, increase coolant to the right level. Next, close the radiator cap and inspect once again for any leaks. If you find any, carry on with the steps that are mentioned above again, until there are no indications of leakage anymore.

However, keep in mind that these are just temporary solutions, and you will want to get in touch with a professional auto mechanic as soon as you possibly can.