Car leaking coolant: Causes, consequences & solutions

Car loses coolant – what to do?

A loss of coolant is a serious problem because the cooling system protects the engine from overheating. If too little coolant circulates in the system, it can cause serious damage to the engine. But why does a car lose coolant? What symptoms indicate a leak? And what does a repair cost?

In this blog, you will find out the most common causes of coolant loss, the possible consequences for the engine and what you can do about it.

Is it bad if the vehicle is leaking coolant?

Yes, a loss of coolant can have serious consequences if it is not detected and repaired in time. Without sufficient coolant, the engine cannot be cooled properly, which can lead to overheating and ultimately to engine damage.

Possible consequences of a loss of coolant:

• Overheating of the engine – can lead to cracks in the engine block
• Damage to the cylinder head gasket – an expensive repair
• Loss of lubricity – can damage moving parts in the engine

💡 Tip: If you have to top up the coolant regularly or find coolant stains under your car, you should have the problem investigated as soon as possible!

Why does a car lose coolant?

A loss of coolant can have various causes. The most common are:

1. Defective hoses or seals

Radiator hoses and seals in the cooling system wear out over time. Small cracks or porous areas can cause the coolant to leak slowly.

Recognizable by:

• Damp spots under the car (especially after prolonged parking)
• Visible cracks or deposits on the hoses

2. Radiator leaking or damaged

A leaking radiator can lose coolant. This is often caused by corrosion or small stone chips.

Recognizable by:

• Coolant stains under the vehicle
• Steam escaping from the engine compartment

3. Defective water pump

The water pump ensures the correct circulation of the coolant. If it is leaking or defective, coolant may escape.

Recognizable by:

• Squeaking noises from the engine compartment
• Heavy loss of coolant without visible leaks

4. Defective cylinder-head gasket

A defective cylinder head gasket can cause cooling water to enter the combustion chamber and be burnt.

Recognizable by:

• White smoke from the exhaust
• Oil in the cooling water or vice versa (milky discoloration)
• Loss of cooling water without visible leaks

What does the repair cost?

The repair costs depend on the cause of the leak. Here is an overview:

Defect	Repair costs (approx.)
Replace hoses or seals	50 – 200 €
Repair or replace radiator	200 – 600 €
Replace water pump	250 – 800 €
Replace cylinder head gasket	1,000 – 3,000 €

Can I top up the coolant myself?

Yes, if the coolant level is low, you can top it up yourself. But please note:

• Always top up with the correct coolant – you can find information on this in the manual
• Allow the engine to cool down! Never open hot coolant – risk of burns!
• Check the coolant regularly – if it disappears quickly, there is a major problem

When is a repair no longer worthwhile?

If the repair costs are high (e.g. in the case of a defective cylinder head gasket), it may be cheaper to sell your car.

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Conclusion: Take coolant loss seriously!

A car that is leaking coolant should not be ignored. The sooner you find the cause, the cheaper a repair can be. However, if the costs are too high, selling the car may be a sensible alternative.

Have your car valued now – quickly & free of charge with CashforCars.de!

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. Can I continue driving with a loss of coolant?
Temporarily yes, but it is not recommended. Continuous coolant loss can lead to engine damage.

2. What color is the coolant?
Depending on the manufacturer, coolant can be pink, blue, green or yellow.

3. How often should I top up the coolant?
Normally, cooling water does not need to be topped up regularly. If you have to top it up often, there is probably a leak.

4. How much does it cost to have a coolant leak repaired?
Depending on the damage, the cost is between €50 and €3,000.

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