Repairing a leak on a Dodge vehicle is similar to repairing a radiator leak on any car. According to the National Automotive Radiator Repair Association, aging affects the radiator more than mileage or car model. Environmental elements, such as road salt, expose the cooling system to chemical reactions that break down the structure. First, you must figure out where the leak is coming from, then take steps to patch the problem until you can get service or replace worn parts.
Determine if you have a leak. Look under the car for a bright, neon-green puddle. This indicates a leak that needs repair immediately. Check the coolant level. Look at the overflow tank to the side of the radiator. Take the cap off the top of the radiator and look for fluid. Low coolant levels can damage the pressurized system.
Let the engine cool completely. Place a pan under the radiator plug and drain any remaining coolant out of the tank. Use a wrench to remove the plug and let the fluid drain. Reattach the plug once the fluid stops dripping.
Remove the radiator cap and insert a garden hose into the tank. Fill the tank with water. This will flush the system while you check for leaks.
Start the engine and examine the system for leaks. Odds are the leak is in one of the hoses. If you locate a hose with an obvious drip, turn the engine off. Remove the hose by loosening the clamp with a wrench. Install a new hose. Start the engine again and watch the hose to make sure it no longer leaks. If the leak appears fixed, turn the engine off. Drain the water out of the tank by opening the radiator plug again. Fill the radiator with coolant following the instructions provided on the product.
Look under the car if all the hoses appear sound. If the leak is coming from the tank, you should see water dripping from a crack under the car. At this point, you can only provide a temporary repair to the radiator. Use a radiator sealant to patch the hole following the instructions on the sealant can. You can also apply a cold weld epoxy to the area. Drain the water from the radiator. Wipe the region around the leak clean with a rag. Apply the epoxy following the directions on the product. The directions should explain how to manipulate the car engine to pull the epoxy into the cracked seam. Allow the epoxy the required time to cure before adding coolant to the radiator.
