What is your opinion of radiator sealants

Tiny
M LARSON
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE
  • 3.1L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 135,000 MILES
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
Saturday, January 20th, 2018 AT 10:36 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 12,998 POSTS
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
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Tuesday, January 23rd, 2018 AT 9:57 AM

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