How to Fix a Car Radiator Leak

ID: 140177

Description: Engineers design car engines to operate at a...

Steps:

  1. Pull up on the release lever to open the hood.
  2. The release lever will be located on the driver's side, under the dashboard.
  3. Underneath the Hyundai symbol in the front of the car, there will be a lever. Move the lever to the side to unlock the hood, then you should be able to lift the hood up.
  4. Step image Step image
  5. Angle the hood prop into the hole on the underside of the car hood to keep it in place.
  6. Ensure the hook is placed securely before releasing the hood to mitigate the risk of the hood falling.
  7. Step image Step image
  8. This section is a reference photo of where to locate the different parts of the car we will be using in this guide!
  9. This is the coolant reservoir, which holds your cars coolant to keep the engine from overheating during use.
  10. This is the radiator cap that is connected to the radiator. The cap itself regulates the pressure in the radiator to prevent overheating!
  11. Step image
  12. Open the radiator cap.
  13. Turn car off and wait 30+ minutes. This ensures the coolant is not at a dangerous temperature and pressure while opening the radiator cap.
  14. Step image
  15. Take the cap off, pour the coolant into the tank then close the cap.
  16. The cap should be marked "Coolant" or as it says in the picture, "Engine Coolant." Consult your vehicle's service manual if you are unable to confirm this.
  17. Make sure you choose the correct coolant. Different climates require different antifreeze mixtures.
  18. Do not overfill your coolant. Check your service manual to see how much is needed. A fill line may be referenced on the coolant reservoir.
  19. Step image Step image
  20. With the hood still open, start the car.
  21. Step image
  22. Slowly pour the entire K-Seal container into the radiator before closing the radiator cap.
  23. K-Seal is used in this guide, however Bar's has been highly rated for it's reliability. You can purchase Bar's for your radiator here.
  24. Step image
  25. Leave the engine running for 10-15 minutes more.
  26. This will let the K-Seal liquid run through and close the hole where the leakage was coming from.
  27. Step image
  28. After turning the car off, recheck the quantity of coolant in the reservoir (refer to Step 5). Add more coolant if necessary.
  29. Step image
Back