What causes coolant to get into the cylinders?
It is often associated with a bad head gasket that is allowing coolant to seep into the engine’s combustion chamber. If your coolant level is low despite no visible leaks under the vehicle, then it might be a problem with the head gasket that you’ll want to have inspected and repaired.
How can I tell if I have a coolant leak in my cylinder?
Coolant in the cylinders will cause:
- White smoke coming from the tailpipe.
- BUBBLING IN THE RADIATOR AND COOLANT RESERVOIR.
- unexplained coolant loss with no leaks.
- Milky white coloration in the oil.
- Engine overheating.
Can I still drive with a coolant leak?
If there’s a leak, coolant will be lost. Coolant is used to remove heat from the engine by transferring heat through a series of coils. It’s best to avoid driving your car if you have a coolant leak because an overheating engine is an unsafe engine!
What happens if coolant leaks from the bottom of the engine?
Your vehicle’s head gasket seals the space between its cylinder head and engine block. If the head gasket fails, coolant, and engine oil may mix. You may also notice that coolant is leaking from the bottom of the engine and dripping onto the ground. Either way, a blown head gasket can be disastrous for your engine.
What’s the best way to fix a coolant leak?
The best way to fix a coolant leak is to track down the location of the leak and repair the old, damaged, or ineffective part. For example, if you have a cracked hose, replacing it is the most effective way to stop your leak. Some components naturally wear out over time.
When to take your car to the doctor for coolant leak?
If the block is cracked or the cylinder head is warped, your engine needs to be taken to an auto professional for major repairs. Stop-leak products are meant for hairline imperfections and minuscule cracks, not the kind of leaks that result in a puddle beneath your vehicle or a coolant smell permeating your car.
Can a worn radiator cap cause coolant to leak?
A worn, weak, or leaking radiator cap will not hold pressure, lowering the boiling point and allowing coolant to boil out. It may also allow coolant to leak externally. Luckily, this is a quick and cheap fix. Just wait for the engine to cool, refill the cooling system, and install a new radiator cap.