Common Škoda Coolant Leaks

Where do coolant leaks occur?

Coolant leaks are either internal or external. Internal coolant leaks are dangerous because it is not possible to see where the leak is coming from. You also cannot see a puddle outside of the car, making it harder to detect. External leaks are easy to diagnose because the coolant often escapes the car and creates a puddle.

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Common sources of a coolant leak are:

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The Radiator

The radiator is pressurized, but is exposed to the stones, vibrations, shocks, and airflow that enter the front of the vehicle. Because of this, the metal on the radiator can rust or suffer metal fatigue, causing a coolant leak.

The Radiator Cap

This is the cap on top of the radiator or its expansion tank where you can check your car’s coolant level. It should be sealed to maintain pressure for the cooling system. However, if it deteriorates, the cooling system will lose its pressure, which can cause a leak.

The Radiator and Heater Hoses

Hoses carry the coolant from the engine and heater core to the radiator. When the hoses get older, they can crack or develop holes which cause the hoses to leak coolant. This is particularly common where the hose bends or where they attach to the radiator, engine, or heater core.

The Expansion Tank

The expansion tank holds extra coolant. It is connected to the radiator with a hose. The tank can leak if the container is cracked, the cap is loose, or a hose has broken or developed a hole.

The Water Pump

The water pump circulates the coolant, and if it breaks, it can cause the car to overheat quickly. If the seal fails, the gasket does not work, or if there is external damage, it can cause a coolant leak.

The Thermostat

The thermostat regulates temperature. A coolant leak can result if it cracks or the gasket fails.

The Heater Core

The heater core provides heat to the inside of the car. Any damage to the core or the hoses it is connected to can cause a coolant leak.

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The Oil Cooler or Oil filter Housing  Gasket

The Oil filter housing and cooler helps cool oil  in the engine. This gasket can fail and leak coolant.

The Head Gasket

The head gasket provides a seal between the engine block and the cylinder heads. If it fails where it is exposed to the exterior of your car’s engine, you may be able to locate the leak. However, this often happens internally, so you may not be able to see the leak or coolant. A combination of oil and coolant is a sign of potential head gasket failure.