Posted: 02/25/2022
You’re most likely here because you’ve been losing coolant and don’t want to pay the cost of a new radiator. Radiator sealant, also known as radiator leak sealant, stop-leak, or coolant leak sealer, can provide a quick fix for leaks, but there are a few things you should know before buying a bottle. We offer a few different varieties of radiator leak sealants below, but take a look over our guide before you buy. Coolant leak repair with stop-leak and similar products is a simple fix, but not a permanent one.
The answer to this question is yes, radiator sealants really do work. However, they are not a miracle solution, and are only good for a temporary fix. Even so-called “permanent” sealants will only last for months, not years.
A good radiator sealant or coolant leak sealer can seal all kinds of cooling system leaks. Coolant sealant leak repair can fix the leaks inside a radiator by sealing the pores of the radiator and plugging the point from where you're leaking coolant. When used correctly, it can effectively seal mild leaks in the cooling system of a car. Additionally, leaks stemming from the head gasket, engine block, or water pump can be fixed with a sealant. As always, follow the instructions carefully when using a stop-leak like the products offered below.
While these products work to fix small leaks, they are not a permanent fix for long-term leaks. While some sealants can last for a long time, others may not be as durable, with a radiator sealing only rated for a few hundred or thousand miles. It all depends on the brand and the formulation of the sealant.
Ultimately, it is important to read the manufacturer's directions carefully to see how long the sealant is supposed to last. In most cases, however, you will need to reapply the coolant leak repair at some point to maintain your car's cooling system.
You'll probably need a professional technician to fix a leaky head and get it repaired properly. As a rule of thumb in car maintenance, if you’ll have to apply a temporary fix more than once or twice, it’s better to fix the source of the problem, but these radiator leak sealant fluids are a great way to make sure you don’t overheat while you’re waiting for your radiator to arrive.
Depending on the severity of the leak, it can last from 10 to 50 thousand miles. In a severe case, the solution may not work at all. If your car keeps leaking after using sealant, a better repair solution is needed. The radiator, coolant lines, head gasket, water pump, thermostat, or other hoses might need replacing. A leak that sealant can't fix is usually big enough that the source becomes obvious.
There are several types of coolant leak repair sealants on the market. To find the right one for your car, read reviews and ratings. Check the formula of the sealant, too. Different formulas will affect your engine differently. When buying a coolant leak sealer, do your research and make sure you're getting the best possible product for your car. You should look for the one that matches the formula and your needs. Our inventory offers a few different options. Let us give you the breakdown to help you choose the right one:
K-Seal Permanent Coolant Leak Repair works on a variety of leaks and is easy to use. A simple shake-and-pour formula allows it to seal leaks in the radiator, head gasket and block without hassle. Some sealants need specific conditions to work properly, but K-Seal is designed to be effective without draining or flushing the system first.
Bar's Leaks offers two different formulas: Heavy Duty Stop-Leak and Radiator Stop-Leak. The standard Radiator Stop-Leak works best for minor leaks and regular maintenance, making it a quick and easy fix. Many drivers choose it when they need a reliable solution without much downtime. The Heavy Duty Stop-Leak, made for more serious problems, creates a stronger seal for larger systems and bigger leaks. A solid choice for older vehicles or those running in tough conditions that need a stronger fix.
Blue Devil's Pour-N-Go Radiator & Block Sealer is known for sealing leaks without clogging the system. It works on metal, aluminum and plastic radiators, heater cores, blocks and heads. Some sealants can cause buildup or even damage cooling systems, but this one is designed to be both safe and effective. Even cars with a history of overheating can handle it without issues. It's a solid option for anyone who needs a reliable seal without risking their cooling system.
Coolant leak sealants can handle smaller leaks in radiators, heater cores and gaskets pretty well. They work as a temporary fix, but they’re not some cure-all. A big crack or major damage somewhere else in the cooling system? That’s a different story. Take a good look at the leak before pouring anything in. If it’s more than just a minor drip, it’s probably worth getting an automotive technician involved.
Some radiator leak sealants, or coolant leak sealers, work in just a few minutes, while others take a few hours to fully seal things up. The exact timing depends on the product and how bad the leak is. Most start doing their job pretty quickly. Check the instructions on the bottle—some require the engine to run for a while to let the sealant do its thing.
Like K-Seal Permanent Coolant Leak Repair, some products offer a permanent solution to leaks in the cooling system. The repair's permanence may depend on the leak's size and location, however. Mechanical repair might be necessary for a long-term solution, in some cases.
Compatible with all types of coolant, most radiator leak sealants work with a wide range of vehicles, including motorcycles, trucks and cars. Checking the product’s compatibility with your specific make, model and coolant type is always a good idea, however.
To seal leaks without clogging the cooling system, quality radiator or coolant leak sealants are specially formulated. Blue Devil Pour-N-Go and similar products highlight their non-clogging formula. Avoiding potential issues requires carefully following the product's instructions.
