Signs & Causes of a Coolant Leak

The cooling system in your Mazda car regulates engine temperature and prevents overheating. A coolant leak can be a big problem for your vehicle if left unaddressed, so it’s crucial to identify and address this issue promptly at John Lee Mazda. 

How Serious is a Coolant Leak? 

A coolant leak can lead to engine overheating, which in extreme cases can cause severe damage and lead to engine failure. At a bare minimum, operating a vehicle with a coolant leak can result in reduced cooling efficiency and an increased chance of overheating – especially in hot weather or during long drives. Moreover, ignoring a coolant leak can cause damage to important Mazda parts such as the water pump, radiator, and head gasket. 

Signs of a Coolant Leak 

There are several signs of a coolant leak that you should keep an eye out for:  

• Low coolant level:?The most common sign of a coolant leak is a consistently low coolant level in the reservoir or radiator. 
• Overheating:?If the engine temperature rises significantly or you notice steam or smoke from under the hood, your car may have a coolant leak. At the very least, schedule an appointment at our Panama City, FL Mazda dealership so we can take a closer look.  
• Coolant puddles:?If you start seeing bright green, yellow, or pinkish puddles of fluid under your car, a coolant leak might be the culprit.  
• White exhaust smoke:?If the leak is in the head gasket, the coolant might mix with engine oil, resulting in white exhaust smoke. 

Causes of a Coolant Leak 

Numerous things can trigger a coolant leak, including: 

• Damaged hoses:?Cracked or worn coolant hoses are a common source of coolant leaks. Regular maintenance at John Lee Mazda is a great way to ensure these hoses get replaced right away.  
• Radiator leak:?Corrosion or physical damage to the radiator can cause leaks.  
• Water pump issues:?A faulty water pump, especially one with a damaged seal, can lead to a coolant leak. 
• Loose/damaged coolant reservoir cap:?If the cap that seals the coolant system is loose or damaged, the likelihood of a leak is far greater. 
• Head gasket failure:?If one of the engine’s head gaskets blows, coolant could leak into the engine oil reservoir, or externally. 

Schedule MAZDA Coolant Leak Repairs in Panama City, FL Today 

A coolant leak can pose big problems for car owners, but by recognizing the symptoms and causes of this issue, you can prevent potential trouble. Schedule Mazda service at John Lee Mazda today and trust us to maximize your car’s longevity and reliability on the road.