Can I Use Stop Leak in Car Radiator?

Radiator stop leak is a product that is designed to repair small leaks in radiators, hoses and other automotive cooling components. While stop leak sealants have some drawbacks, their use is inexpensive and is not harmful.

Advantages

  • Stop leak sealants are both easy to use and inexpensive. The sealant is added to the coolant in the radiator and allowed to circulate through the cooling system. Many radiator sealants will also treat and repair small leaks in seals and gaskets that might not have been noticed as well as work to prevent the development of these leaks.

Disadvantage

  • Leaks repaired by a stop leak coolant may reappear over time as many leaks are caused by internal corrosion in the radiator. While the stop leak sealant may seal the leak, the damage caused by the corrosion will remain, and new leaks may appear in the same area.

Other Considerations

  • When using radiator stop leak products, car owners should carefully follow the product directions for best results. Opening the heater core by turning the heat control up in the car will allow the sealant to flow through the heater core as well.