What is your opinion of radiator sealants

2004 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE
135,000 MILES • 3.1L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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M LARSON
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My Daughter, who does not live close to me and is a single parent, has had this vehicle's radiator "repaired" three years ago and is now leaking. I think the repair was done correctly, but think it is time for her to seriously consider trading for another vehicle with less miles and a more dependable model.

For short term while we shop the market for a dependable car, is it beneficial to use stop leak liquid to buy some time? I would not think twice of using it if there was a leak in the engine block, and we have identifies this leak to the right lower radiator.

Thank you,
Marlin
Jan 20, 2018 at 10:36 AM
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STEVE W.
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The problem with most stop leak products is that they stop more than just the leak. I'm battling a Jeep Cherokee at the moment that the owner dumped in some, it plugged the heater core and part of the radiator. Damaged the water pump seal as well.

Personally, I would probably drop a new radiator into it, then look for a different vehicle if this one has been a problem. That wouldn't impact the possibility of selling the Jeep as much as putting a sealer in it and it would make it safer to operate while searching.
Replacement radiators can be bought for 100-150 dollars
Jan 23, 2018 at 9:57 AM