The radiator is a very important part of a car’s cooling system as it helps cools down the engine by circulating water through pipes. You may face problems with your radiator sometimes in the form of leaks, rusty water, cracks or low fluid levels. Now, you can take your car to the mechanic for repair; however, if you want to save money or if you cannot afford to spend that much on the repair, then you must know how to fix a radiator on your own.
A leaky radiator can result from many things. If your radiator has too much water and less coolant, it can result in corrosion and rust formation on the radiator’s internal surface and thus cause the hose to crack and start leaking. You can fix the leak using different techniques.
Fixing a radiator leak
- First, locate the origin of the leak. If it is in the hose, you can fix it simply by replacing the hose, which is very easy and inexpensive.
- However, if the leak is in the radiator caps you might have to replace the cap or gasket.
- If the radiator is leaking at the stem, you can patch it from outside using a metal patching product, like putty. This can be applied on the leak and left to dry overnight.
- You can also use a leak stop additive with antifreeze to fix the leak. You only need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions mentioned on the packet.
- If the additive you are using cannot be mixed with coolant, then you will have to drain the radiator. Then, flush it with plain water and fill again with water. Now, mix the additive and drive your car for about 80 miles. Drain the radiator again and let it dry completely. Refill it with the coolant and the leak should have fixed.
Fixing a radiator leak using pepper
- Allow your car to cool down completely and then open the cap of the coolant reservoir. Fill it till the upper mark on the tank.
- Now, open the radiator cap and pour 1 ounce of pepper inside.
- Turn on the ignition and start your car. The pepper that you put inside will be forced towards the leak due to the pressure and because the pepper does not dissolve in the coolant, it will get deposited at the area of the leak.
- Once the engine reaches normal temperature, check if the engine is still leaking or not. Add more pepper if notice even a slight leak and keep adding till the leak stops. However, make sure that you do not add more than 2 ounces of pepper as it may cause damage to your coolant system.
- This is considered by some as a temporary fix, but it has been observed that pepper can effectively fix a leak permanently.
Tips & Warnings
- Flush the radiator at least once every six months to ensure that it keeps running smoothly.
- Check the water level in the radiator once in a week and refill as and when necessary.
- If you radiator is non-sealed, you must clean it regularly of insects, dirt, leaves or any other obstructions.
- When you scrape off dust or debris from the surface of the radiator, make sure that you do it gently and not damage the surface.
- If you find rust on the radiator, you will have to replace it.
- Always read the instructions on the additive’s packaging and make sure that the additive you are about to use is safe for your car.
- Always carry a container of radiator fluid or even some water, which will help you when a temporary fix does not work.
- Be very careful while draining out the radiator. Keep children and pets away as the water is toxic; so dispose it properly.
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