. Is using plain water instead of coolant causing rust and leaks in my Suzuki Swift radiator?

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. Is using plain water instead of coolant causing rust and leaks in my Suzuki Swift radiator?

I’ve been using tap water in my Swift’s radiator due to coolant unavailability. Now the radiator seems to be rusting and has developed small leaks. Is this a common issue in Pakistan, and how badly does untreated water affect the radiator?

Gari Specialist asked on 03 May 2025 14:30:19 pm

1 Answer

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Gari Specialist - on 08 May 2025 15:56:24 pm

Yes, using plain water instead of coolant in your Suzuki Swifts radiator can absolutely cause rust, corrosion, and leaks over time.

Here’s why:

Why Plain Water Is a Problem:
No Corrosion Protection:
Coolant contains anti-corrosive additives that prevent rust inside the radiator, engine block, and water pump. Tap water, especially in Pakistan, often contains minerals and salts that promote corrosion.

Rust Buildup:
Plain water leads to rust forming inside the radiator and engine, which can block coolant flow and reduce heat dissipation.

Overheating Risk:
Water alone boils at 100°C, while coolant mixtures raise the boiling point to 105–110°C o r more, helping prevent overheating in hot Pakistani climates.

Cracked Radiator o r Hoses:
Repeated heating and cooling of untreated water causes scale deposits and internal pressure issues, which may lead to cracks and leaks.

Freezing in Cold Areas:
In cooler regions like Murree o r Abbottabad, plain water can freeze and cause severe engine damage. Coolant prevents freezing down to –20°C o r lower depending on the mix.

What You Should Do:
Use a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water for ideal protection.

If coolant is unavailable short-term, only use clean, mineral-free water and flush it out later.

Flush your radiator and replace with proper coolant if you’ve used plain water for an extended period.