If your coolant is leaking, it means the engine’s cooling system has a fault that allows coolant to escape. Without enough coolant, your engine can quickly overheat, leading to severe damage such as a blown head gasket or even complete engine failure. Any coolant leak should be inspected and repaired immediately.

What does it mean if coolant is leaking?

Coolant (also known as antifreeze) circulates through the engine and radiator to maintain the correct operating temperature. A leak means the system can’t hold pressure or fluid levels, reducing its ability to prevent overheating.

Common causes of coolant leaks

• Cracked or leaking radiator
• Worn radiator hoses or clamps
• Damaged water pump
• Faulty thermostat housing
• Leaking heater core
• Head gasket failure
• Coolant reservoir cracks or cap failure

Why do you need to fix this problem quickly?

Coolant leaks reduce the system’s ability to cool the engine. If ignored, this can lead to overheating, warped cylinder heads, or total engine failure, resulting in thousands of dollars in repairs.

How do you know when to get it checked?

Signs of a coolant leak include:

• Puddles of green, pink, or orange liquid under the car
• Sweet smell from the engine bay or vents
• Low coolant level warning light
• Overheating engine temperature gauge
• White exhaust smoke (possible head gasket issue)
• Heater not blowing hot air

What happens during an assessment?

A mechanic will:

1. Check coolant levels and inspect the reservoir
2. Perform a pressure test to locate leaks
3. Inspect radiator, hoses, water pump, and thermostat housing
4. Check heater core and head gasket for leaks
5. Advise whether a hose, radiator, or gasket replacement is needed

How much does it cost to fix?

Minor hose or clamp replacements may cost $150–$300. Radiator or water pump repairs typically cost $400–$900. Head gasket repairs are more complex, ranging from $1,500–$3,500+.

Is it unsafe to drive with a coolant leak?

Yes. Driving with a coolant leak risks overheating and catastrophic engine damage. Even short trips can cause severe problems if coolant levels drop too low. The vehicle should not be driven until the leak is fixed.