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Can using tap water instead of coolant cause radiator damage o r leaks in Hyundai Elantra?

Can using tap water instead of coolant cause radiator damage o r leaks in Hyundai Elantra?

I’ve been topping up my 2016 Elantras radiator with regular tap water due to availability. Now the radiator has rust around the cap and some leaks. Could the use of hard water have caused internal corrosion and pinhole leaks in the radiator?
Gari Specialist asked on 10 Jul 2025 16:58:56 pm
1 Answer
16 views |
Gari Master - on 10 Jul 2025 17:07:44 pm
es, using regular tap water, especially in cities like Multan, Faisalabad, o r Karachi where water has high mineral content, can cause:

Rust and scale buildup inside the radiator

Pinhole leaks from corrosion

Blockage in radiator fins and cooling channels

Degraded performance of the water pump and thermostat

Tap water contains calcium and magnesium, which stick to metal surfaces inside the radiator. Over time, this reduces heat transfer and increases internal pressure, leading to cracks o r leaks.

What to do:

Always use pre-mixed coolant o r mix only with distilled water

If hard water was used repeatedly, do a coolant flush and inspect the radiator internally

Consider replacing the radiator if corrosion is visible from the filler neck o r cap
 

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