Why a Coolant Leak Is More Serious Than It Looks
If you’ve noticed a puddle under your car for a period or the temperature gauge climbing higher than usual, you could be facing a coolant leak.
Coolant keeps your engine from overheating. When it leaks, your engine temperature rises quickly and if ignored, that can lead to warped gaskets, warped engine blocks, or total engine failure.
Here are the most common reasons your car might be losing coolant:
- Worn or Cracked Radiator Hose
Hoses can harden and crack from heat and vibration, especially in older cars or those running over 100,000 km.
- Aging Gaskets or Seals
Over time, the rubber seals around the thermostat, water pump, or cylinder head degrade and allow small leaks.
- Leaking Radiator or Spare Tank
Corrosion or impact damage can cause hairline cracks in the radiator or coolant tank.
- Faulty Water Pump
The pump keeps coolant flowing. A failing pump can leak from its seals or bearings.
- Loose or Faulty Radiator Cap
Sometimes, it’s as simple as a worn-out cap that can’t hold proper pressure.
- Internal Engine Leak (Head Gasket Failure)
The most serious case, coolant mixes with engine oil, often seen as a milky residue under the oil cap or white smoke from the exhaust.
How to Spot Early Signs of a Coolant Leak
Catch it early and you’ll save hundreds of dollars. Watch for these symptoms:
- Sweet or chemical smell from the engine bay
- White smoke or steam from the hood
- Temperature gauge running hotter than usual
- Low coolant warning light or warning sound
- Visible puddle (usually green, pink, or orange fluid) under your car
If you see these signs, stop driving and get it checked. Overheating just once can cause severe engine damage.
How to Prevent Coolant Leaks
A few habits can extend the life of your cooling system:
- Inspect hoses and seals during each service – replace if they’re brittle or bulging.
- Use authentic coolant (don’t mix brands or colors).
- Check your radiator cap occasionally – it’s cheap but critical.
- Don’t ignore overheating warnings – small leaks often start after overheating episodes.
Key Takeaway
Coolant leaks aren’t just a small inconvenience, they’re a warning sign your engine is asking for help. Knowing the causes and prevention tips can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress.
Keep your car cool, efficient, and safe – and when in doubt, let TT Motorsport take a look.
At TT Motorsport, we combine precise diagnostics. Whether it’s a small leak or full cooling system overhaul, our technicians ensure:
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Accurate leak detection (no unnecessary part swaps) -
Genuine or OEM-equivalent parts -
Transparent pricing and explanation before work begin
Our servicing package: https://ttmotorsport.sg/our-packages/
