Finding a puddle of liquid under your car usually means there’s something wrong with it, and you should definitely try to find the problem as soon as possible. It’s the same when you see something out of the ordinary with your body. You don’t wait for it to get worse. You try to fix the problem as soon as possible.
If you discover that your car’s radiator is leaking, this can turn it into a severe problem as the engine could overheat and even catch fire. Lucky for you, having a look at a few of the best radiator stop leaks we’re about to introduce you to might be the perfect inexpensive way to solve your problem.
If things aren’t too serious, a product like this could save you a lot of money and worries. They can do wonders for your vehicle, considering you know what you’re looking for and buy accordingly. Luckily, this article is also a buyer’s guide and will make sure you understand the basics of car radiator leaks and the tool that can help solve the problem.
Best Radiator Stop Leaks
Bar’s Leaks Liquid Aluminum Stop Leak
A Very Affordable Radiator Stop Leak
- 16.9-Ounce Bottle
- Seals Freeze Plugs
- Lowers Water Temperature
- Repairs Gasket Leaks
The first one you’ll be having a look at is one that offers much more than simply sealing radiator leaks. It’s a 3-in-1 package that will prove quite beneficial should you decide to go for it.
First of all, it seals your radiator leak, as it’s supposed to. But there’s more to it than just that. On top of doing what it’s made for, Bar’s liquid aluminum stop leak also makes sure to seal freeze plug leaks and repairs gasket leaks as well. On top of that, it also lowers water temperature, giving away more than it is worth. Lucky for you, that’s a great thing.
The price might be one of the best features of it. Don’t get fooled by the low cost, as its benefits have proven to be very effective, and the product is considered a steal.
K-SEAL Coolant Leak Repair
A Long-Lasting Radiator Stop Leak Additive
- 8-Ounce Bottle
- Repairs Head Gasket
- Works on Water Pump Casing
- Treats Up To 12 Cylinders
The next one is a bit smaller than the first, as it stands at 8 ounces capacity. That’s not a problem at all as K-Seal’s stop leak makes sure to fix any cracks and stop the radiator from leaking in minutes. All you have to do is simply pour the contents of the bottle and watch the magic happen.
It works great on both older and newer cars. You can also use it to seal gaskets, and it’s one of the rare ones that are tested to meet ASTM D3147. The manufacturer has made sure to run quite a few scientific tests that prove its efficiency. It has proven to fix cracks ranging up to 1/32 of an inch wide. Another thing they’ve made sure to test is its durability. It lasts for quite a while and will hold out until you decide to go ahead and ultimately change the radiator if it’s severely damaged.
The price is a bit higher compared to the pick above, but it’s not something extremely expensive, as it has proven to get the job done fast and efficiently.
Liqui Moly Radiator Stop Leak
A Very Cost-Effective Radiator Stop Leak
- 8-Ounce Can
- Made in Germany
- Works in Plastic Parts of Radiator
Here comes another very affordable radiator stop leak that you will want to check out. This one is by Liqui Moly, and it comes in an 8-ounce can. Liqui Moly’s products are usually made in Germany, which means you are getting a higher quality product.
With their radiator stop leak, you’ll be getting a great additive that stops all radiator leaks and works relatively quickly. It’s incredibly affordable and very cost-efficient. You’re free to use it on all water cooling or heating systems that may or may not feature a water filter. Their additive is one of the best radiator stop leaks for small holes and is one that lasts for quite a while.
It also does a wonderful job of securing the combustion chamber from any damage that may be caused by coolant admission. To sum it up, Liqui Moly is offering a unique, cost-efficient radiator stop leak that will solve your leak problem with ease.
AlumAseal Radiator Stop Leak Powder Blister Card
The Most Inexpensive Radiator Stop Leak Ever
- One 20g Powder Blister Card
- Compatible With All Types of Antifreeze
- Treats 21-Liter Cooling Systems
- Safe for Metal, Plastic, and Rubber Parts
AlumAseal brings a unique radiator stop leak to the table as this one isn’t in liquid form. It features one 20g powder blister card that stops leaks efficiently and rather quickly. It’s perfectly safe to be used for both metal, rubber, and plastic cooling systems.
To make sure you don’t have to stress about it, AlmuAseal’s radiator stop leak is compatible with all types of antifreeze and coolants. A single treatment of this is enough to handle a 21-liter system cooling capacity.
This is excellent to know so that you can make a more informed and easier choice. It’s the most inexpensive one you will find on this list, so it’s perfect to consider and try out, as it most definitely won’t harm your bank account.
Bar’s Leaks HDC Radiator Stop Leak Tablet
Among the Best Stop Leaks for Radiators Ever
- Six Tablets Inside
- Conditions Cooling System
- Lubricates Water Pump
- Professional Strength Formula
Before you go ahead and purchase the best radiator stop leak additive for you, you simply must look at another one of Bar’s amazing and very inexpensive options. This is not your typical liquid stop leak, as it comes in a different shape and size.
The package features six tablets that also do a bit more than just fixing leaks. They won’t reduce water temperature or prevent overheating in advance. Still, they will make sure to lubricate the water pump seals. They will help control electrolysis and restrain corrosion and rust.
To add to the benefits of this one, it’s another one of the most inexpensive options from this list, which is always a great thing to hear. You can rest assured knowing that Bar’s Leaks will help you protect your vehicle for a while and won’t let things get too bad very quickly.
ACDelco Cooling System Seal Tablet
A Very Versatile Radiator Stop Leak
- Five 4g Tablets
- Non-Toxic
- DEX-COOL Compatible
The last choice we’ll be reviewing is a neat product by Genuine GM. This is another pack of tablets, similar to the previous one. However, they are not the same, as there are a few differences between the two.
For example, this pack features only five tablets, not six. It’s slightly more expensive than the other one as well. But, there is a reason for that. Part of it is that it’s completely non-toxic, making it more attractive to most users. It’s DEX-COOL antifreeze compatible, and it also protects from corrosion.
These tablets are also slightly smaller than the previous, meaning they will most-likely fit all systems and offer a smooth, hassle-free process.
How to Choose a Radiator Stop Leak
As we all might know, one of the main reasons we want our cars running smoothly is because of our wellbeing and safety. Sure, having a broken down car is horrible, but getting badly hurt in the process is even worse. Having a broken and leaking radiator can be a huge problem that can even be fatal.
Actually, most leaks coming from your car should be assessed and taken care of. This can include oil and other fluid leaks. Lucky for you, there are many useful products like engine oil stop leaks and other fluid stop leaks that can always come in handy.
For this reason, you should always take the problem head-on as soon as you can. Taking the car to a mechanic to fix the problem entirely is inevitable, but it’s also expensive. Another amazing way to delay the visit to the mechanic and hopefully even fix this particular problem permanently is by trying to find the best radiator stop leak for your vehicle.
You already saw a few of the best options out there right now, but let’s have a look at what makes them the best and what to always look out for if you want to make the correct decision. This is your buyer’s guide to always picking out the right radiator stop leak for you.
Type of Radiator Stop Leak Additive
There are three main and popular types of this product that you can always find. In general, there won’t be any major effect on what type you buy and use. It may vary in cost, but they will all do the job they’re made for at the end of the day.
The three main types you will come across come in liquid, powder, and tablet form. The liquid form is usually the most popular of the three and is generally most used. But, as I said, it won’t be a huge deal which one you decide to get as the only factor they might affect is the cost.
Any Extra Benefits?
Aside from doing what they’re made for – sealing radiator leaks – there are many brands out there that offer added benefits with their product. This will obviously affect the product’s price, but it can often be very worthwhile as you consider what they have to offer.
Some can include the benefit of lowering water temperature, preventing cracks in the first place, improving performance, preventing overheating, and much more. If you have the budget, it won’t hurt to get one that offers much more than it’s worth.
Compatibility
One of the main things you always need to be on the lookout for is if the product you are considering is compatible. This usually refers to the type of antifreeze you’re using. Not every radiator stop leak is compatible with all antifreeze types, so checking before you buy is highly advised.
This can also refer to other things, such as if it’s safe to use for both metal, plastic, and other types of systems. Getting even the best plastic radiator stop leak on the market won’t do any good if it’s not compatible with your system.
Flush or No Flush
Another thing you can’t afford to overlook is if the radiator stop leak you’re considering requires you to flush the system. If so, prepare beforehand by getting something like a radiator flush and preparing everything to ensure a smooth operation.