Why is my car leaking coolant?
What you need to know:
- It is advisable to have your mechanic examine the condition of the engine oil to rule out contamination from coolant via the head gasket
Hello Paul, lately, my Toyota Ipsum has been losing engine coolant, and I have to top it up every day. We recently replaced the water pump, but the problem persists. Additionally, I had to replace the timing belt again in a short period because the new one broke. What could be causing these two issues? Kisira
Hello Kisira, the engine cooling system and the timing system are separate and independent from each other. However, a failure in the cooling system can potentially affect the timing system, particularly the timing belt.
The engine cooling system relies on the water pump to circulate coolant fluid around the engine. The cooling fans and radiator work to lower the temperature of the coolant, which subsequently cools the engine. If any of these components fail, the engine can overheat, leading to coolant leakage.
An overheated engine can also damage a new timing belt. Other reasons for engine coolant loss include a damaged cylinder head gasket, which may occur after an overheating incident, allowing coolant to leak into the engine oil.
It is advisable to have your mechanic examine the condition of the engine oil to rule out contamination from coolant via the head gasket. In addition to the water pump you recently replaced, a corroded engine block can also lead to coolant leaks. Additionally, damaged or loose coolant hoses, a worn radiator cap, and a corroded radiator housing are common culprits of coolant leakage. Your mechanic should check these components as well.
The timing belt (T belt) is responsible for synchronizing the operation of the camshaft and crankshaft, ensuring optimal ignition and combustion while preventing the collision of valves and pistons.
As it is located near the hottest part of the engine, a cooling system failure that causes the engine to overheat can lead to premature failure of the timing belt. Other factors that can contribute to the early damage of the timing belt include not replacing a worn T belt tensioner and pulleys during the timing belt replacement, leaking camshaft oil seals, and using counterfeit or low-quality timing belts.
Discuss these points with your mechanic, who should be able to identify the cause of your current issues and resolve both problems.
