If you notice steam or fluid leaking from the engine compartment in your car, you probably have a fluid leak. At the first opportunity, you should fix your rubber radiator hoses. Luckily, there are a number of different methods you can try to accomplish this. If one of the methods below doesn't work, try a different one, or a combination of methods. The key to fixing a rubber radiator hose is to repair it so that it will last long enough until you can have the hose replaced.
Pull over the car immediately, if you are driving and you notice steam coming from under your car's hood. Park your car in a location well away from the road, if possible. Shift the car into "Park" and cut the engine. Remove the keys from the ignition. Open the front hood. Allow the car's engine time to cool, at least 30 to 45 minutes.
Locate the rubber radiator hose with the leak. You should be able to see steam or fluid dripping out of the hose that needs to be fixed. Radiator fluid is greenish in color.
Check the hose clamps to see if the leak is coming from the end of the hose. Tighten these clamps with either a flat-bladed or Phillips screwdriver.
Dry off the area around the leak with a rag. Clean off the rubber radiator hose with a degreaser if possible.
Take a roll of duct tape and begin wrapping it around the hose. Start about 3 inches above the tear and wrap the tape around the hose in a clockwise direction. Once you've reached 3 inches below the tear, trim off the end of the tape. Repeat the process in the opposite direction.
Patch the area with a small piece of rubber. Cut the area to the size of the leak. Place the rubber patch over the leak and hold it in place with two hose clamps.
Use a radiator repair kit. The instructions for these kits differ, so you will need to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Open the radiator reservoir, which is usually located on the side of the engine compartment. There will be a small hose leading from the reservoir to the radiator. Refill the reservoir to the recommended level with radiator fluid.
