- The overflow hose is a safety feature that allows excess coolant to escape the radiator when the pressure inside the cooling system becomes too high.
- When the thermostat opens, the hot coolant flows into the radiator and the radiator fan blows air through the radiator, cooling the coolant down and allowing the pressure to drop.
- If the radiator is not able to cool the coolant down sufficiently, the pressure in the system will continue to rise and the coolant will start to flow out the overflow hose.
Possible Causes:
1. Faulty thermostat:
- A stuck thermostat that does not open can cause the coolant to build up pressure and eventually force it out through the overflow hose.
2. Faulty radiator cap:
- A faulty radiator cap that is not able to maintain the correct pressure in the system can also lead to coolant overflow.
3. Head gasket failure:
- A blown head gasket can allow combustion gasses to enter the cooling system, which can cause the coolant to overheat and overflow.
4. Coolant leak:
- A small leak in the cooling system can cause the coolant level to drop below the minimum level, which can also lead to overheating and overflow.
To prevent overflow:
1. Regular maintenance:
- Regularly inspect the thermostat and ensure that it is functioning correctly, inspect the radiator cap for any damage or signs of wear and tear, and ensure coolant level maintained
2. Head gasket condition:
- If the vehicle is experiencing issues with overheating, have a mechanic check the head gasket for any signs of failure
3. Leakage issues:
- Regularly check for any small leaks in the hoses and components of the cooling system
