Leaking radiator cap

ANSWER : First off, I would say it would be best to pressure test the cooling system to verify where the coolant is coming from. With the complexity of repairs to the cooling system on this vehicle, it may be worth the time spent to pressure test the system before tackling the replacement. Now then, as far as replacing the o-ring seal on the water pump inlet tube, it should really only require the removal of the bypass hose, lower radiator hose, and the two (or three, depending on manufacturing changes) mounting bolts that hold the inlet tube to the block. I personally would go ahead and replace the tube while I was there, instead of just the o-ring. Granted, this doesn’t mention what it will take to get down to the inlet pipe, but this is all it should take once you have access to it. If this is something that you feel you could use a hand with, consult with a certified mechanic, like those available at YourMechanic.com.

ANSWER : Hello – although this cooling system hose looks much like an octopus, it can be changed without removing the radiator. It does require small hands and a bit of "technique". For assistance, I would recommend a radiator hose service by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.

ANSWER : If you have not done a job like this before you might want to consider watching a professional from YourMechanic do it for you, especially as the labor time is less than 1.5 hours so it’s pretty economical. The first order of business, of course, is to make sure that the upper hose is actually leaking and you don’t have a different issue such as a crack is the radiator itself where the hose attaches. Also, if that hose is leaking due to a break in aged rubber, the other "old" hoses should be inspected as well. A radiator hose replacement entails removing any plastic shields that prevent access to the hose(s). Then, you have to drain the coolant to a level below the lowest point that you will be working at. The hose clamps are removed and then you have to carefully "debond" the hose from the point it is attached to the tank. Over time, the rubber will bond really tightly to the radiator and you have to break the seal with damaging or severely scratching the radiator "nipple" (the part the hose slides over). Then you slip the new hose on (with clamps already loosely applied), apply the clamps and you are ready to refill. When refilling, you have to open the cooling system bleeder screws (if equipped) to ensure that air does not get trapped. Trapped air could cause the car to overheat as trapped air can block coolant flow.

ANSWER : Hi there. It’s quite possible that this is a rear oil seal or oil pan gasket that is leaking; or perhaps a transmission oil tube seal that is leaking. The problem with trying to diagnose an oil leak is that typically the oil tends to spray onto different components underneath the vehicle. You might want to have a professional mechanic complete an oil leak inspection to help you locate the source of the leak and recommend the right repairs.

ANSWER : Hi, thanks for writing in. I believe that you are correct. I believe you should pay for the radiator and the labor to install the radiator but not pay for the original service because this did not resolve your issue. It is certainly possible that the original service is what caused the crack in the radiator. It is also possible that the problem existed already and they missed over it. This is why to determine cooling system leaks a pressure test should always be performed. I would recommend negotiating with the shop that performed the repair and explain why you should not have to pay for the original service due to the fact that the radiator repair was missed over during their inspection.

ANSWER : Hi there. A blown head gasket is typically the result of an overheating situation, not the cause. So, if your engine has been overheating recently, it’s possible that engine damage has occurred. However, it is more likely that the radiator cap itself is damaged or not sealing correctly. However, if you’re losing coolant, it might be best to have a professional mobile mechanic come to your location to complete a fluid leaking inspection to verify the source of this issue, so the right repairs will be made.

ANSWER : Coolant leaks no matter how big or small should be addressed as soon as possible. As you noticed, the engine will run hot with a low coolant level. Even a minor leak can expand to a large or catastrophic leak with no warning. A minor repair now can turn into engine overheat and damage. The leak can be small enough now that it is burning away when contacting hot surfaces and not hitting the ground. If the radiator leaking is the cause of the coolant loss, then it should be replaced as soon as possible. The cooling system operates under pressure – usually 12-15 psi. A small leak can become a large leak because of the pressure. Have a certified technician address this as soon as possible. Do not use "coolant leak sealer" products as they are a temporary fix and can actually cause more damage by clogging small coolant passages and damage the water pump as well.

ANSWER : Hello Daniel, thank you for writing in. While these issues are frustrating, it may be as simple as needing to flush the system. Yes when you flush the entire system, you should be able to flush the water pockets as well. This all depends on how clogged the system is and how well the system is flushed. You will also want to make sure you are using a quality coolant when you replace it after flushing it. Keep an eye on the engine for any signs that the head gasket is damaged. If you suspect the sludge is oil contamination, then this is where it would be coming from. For any further diagnostic help, contact our service department to schedule an appointment.