A coolant leak can be disastrous for a car’s engine. Low coolant levels can cause your vehicle to overheat, and, if it goes on long enough, serious damage could happen to your engine. If you suspect you might have a coolant leak, follow the car repair steps below to determine if you were right and how to identify where it is coming from.

3 Car Repair Steps for Catching a Coolant Leak

1. Check Your Coolant Levels

The best way to avoid low coolant levels is to check how much fluid is in the reservoir at least once a month. You don’t have to open the radiator; just check to see if the liquid in the reservoir reaches the “full” line. If it doesn’t, let your engine cool off before adding a 50-50 mix of coolant and water. You should then check it over the next couple of days to make sure your levels were only low and not caused by a leak.

2. Perform a Pressure Test

If your coolant levels do end up being low again in a couple of days, you should then try to perform a cooling system pressure test. A pressure tester is attached to the area where the radiator cap goes, and you will have to pump it by hand to simulate the pressure that your cooling system undergoes when it is hot, which is usually 13 to 16 pounds per square inch. Let the vehicle remain in this state for 20 to 30 minutes, and then check the entire cooling system for signs of leaks. 

3. Place a UV Dye in Your Engine Coolant

An alternative option for finding your coolant leak is to pick up some UV dye and light from your local auto parts store. After adding it to your coolant, drive around for a few days to allow it to circulate through all the parts in your cooling system. Then bring your car to a dark area and use the UV light to search for the leak.

If you think you have a coolant leak, a quick way to find it is to bring your vehicle to the auto mechanics at Branford Radiator Repair Service in Connecticut today. This locally owned and operated business provides high-quality radiator repair services. Learn more about them and their car repair services by calling (203) 488-7346 or visiting their website.