Why Is My Car Leaking? Radiator Hose
Hey there, Stacey here from Wayside Garage in Seaside, California! Today, we’re tackling a common car issue that could sneak up on you—a fluid leak. Specifically, we're diving into cooling system leaks, which can lead to bigger problems if not addressed.
What We Found on This 2014 Hybrid C-Max
One of our recent customers brought in a 2014 Hybrid C-Max with a mysterious fluid leak. After a thorough inspection, we found two leaks, but today we'll focus on the cooling system. We discovered that the radiator hoses, particularly the lower hose, were leaking.
The Importance of Your Radiator Hoses
Radiator hoses aren’t just small pieces of rubber. In this case, the lower radiator hose assembly was the culprit, and you can’t simply replace a section—it’s an all-in-one deal. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, we also replaced the upper radiator hose as part of preventative care.
Radiator hoses are essential to your engine’s health because they help regulate temperature. Over time, these hoses can crack or burst, leading to engine overheating or even severe damage like a blown head gasket.
When Should You Replace Your Radiator Hoses?
We recommend replacing your radiator hoses every 60,000 miles or every five years—whichever comes first. Even if your hoses look fine from the outside, wear starts from the inside. Waiting too long can lead to leaks like the one we found.
Preventative Maintenance is Key
At Wayside Garage, we're all about preventative maintenance. Regular checks and services can help prevent breakdowns and expensive repairs. For instance, we suggest a cooling system service every two to three years or 30,000 miles to ensure your coolant pH and freeze protection are up to par.
Why Regular Inspections Matter
Many leaks go unnoticed until they’ve caused damage. That’s why we offer a complimentary inspection every 6 months as part of our maintenance plan. This proactive approach can keep your car running smoothly well past 200,000 miles.
If you're due for a cooling system check or suspect a leak, give us a call at 831-899-2425 or schedule an appointment online at www.waysidegarage.com. Let’s keep your car in top shape!
For more maintenance tips, check out our YouTube Channel