Car engines have several moving parts that naturally heat due to friction. By transferring heat via thermal radiation, radiators keep car engines cool to avoid overheating. A radiator leak can interfere with the cooling process of a vehicle and cause extensive and expensive damage to the engine. If your radiator has a leak, you will see fluid dripping or bubbling from the source. Eventually, the leaking radiator will have to be permanently repaired by a mechanic, but you can implement temporary fixes that will suffice until you see a mechanic.
Instructions
- 1
Ensure that your vehicle has had ample time to rest and has a cool engine. Follow the dripping fluid to find the source of the radiator leak.
2Use a shop rag or towel to dry the area of the leak. If the leak is in the hose of the radiator, use scissors to cut a length of duct tape that will wrap around the hose at least three times. Press the duct tape firmly with each pass to ensure that it is tightly in place. When wrapping the duct tape around the hose, place the tape in a position that allows it to fully cover the area of the leak and extends slightly above and beyond the area of the leak.
3Remove the radiator cap, if the leak is in the body of the radiator, and add 1 to 2 tbsp. of ground black pepper to the radiator. The black pepper acts as a barrier by expanding when it hits the water in the radiator, blocking the source of the leak.
4Fill the radiator with the appropriate amount of water once you have repaired the source of the leak. Replace the radiator cap.
5Carry the black pepper and a container of water in your trunk. It may be necessary to add more pepper and fluid if the radiator begins to leak again before you can make it to the mechanic.
