1998 Saturn SC1 Radiator Leak

1998 SATURN
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K2LASER
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
My car started leaking antifreeze fluid causing the warning light to flash on my dash and I wanted to know if I can use a leak repair liquid until I have it repaired. I really cannot see the radiator on this Saturn, but the resevoir does not hold the antifreeze for long and the bottom of the car is wet. I appreciate a response asap. Thank you very much guys!!!
Mar 8, 2006 at 3:00 PM
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PEPPERMRJ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,158 POSTS
Some things to consider before you add that stop leak product. Stop leak can be effective on the aluminum (center rows) portion of the rad. It will not be effective on the plastic side tanks which is where most cracks occur.

Depending on the mileage the leak could also be elswhere. My waterpump went @ about 115,000 miles. Stop leak won't be effective.

There is a down side to stop leak products also. In some instances they have been thought to clog heater cores.

If you can determine that the leak is from the center of the rad in the aluminum rows go for it. Follow the product instructions and turn the heater off maybe even to AC and cold temperature setting.

Good luck and let us know. :)
Mar 8, 2006 at 4:34 PM
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Suggested Repair

Locate the leak before using stop-leak. It may seal the aluminum radiator core but will not seal cracked plastic side tanks or a failed water pump, and it can clog the heater core. If the leak is in the aluminum core, follow the product instructions and keep the heater off or set the temperature to cold.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1998 Saturn SC1 reports antifreeze leaking, a flashing dash warning light, a reservoir that will not hold coolant, and wetness under the car, and asks whether stop-leak can be used temporarily. The expert says stop-leak may work on the aluminum radiator core but not plastic side tanks or a water pump, warns it can clog the heater core, and advises following the product instructions with the heater off if the leak is in the aluminum rows.

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