How can I tell if my Suzuki Wagon R radiator is leaking internally o r externally?
How can I tell if my Suzuki Wagon R radiator is leaking internally o r externally?
My Suzuki Wagon R’s coolant level keeps ping, and I’m unsure if the leak is inside the engine o r outside the radiator. Sometimes I see coolant on the ground, but other times I don’t. What are the signs that indicate an internal radiator leak versus an external one?
1 Answer
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Gari Specialist asked on 29 May 2025 14:07:24 pm


To differentiate between an internal and external radiator leak in your Suzuki Wagon R, watch for the following signs:
External Leak:
Visible coolant puddles o r drips under the car o r near the radiator.
Wet spots o r corrosion around radiator hoses, clamps, o r the radiator body.
Steam o r coolant spray from the front of the engine when hot.
Internal Leak e.g., Head Gasket Leak:
No visible external coolant loss but consistent in coolant levels.
White smoke o r sweet-smelling exhaust indicating burning coolant.
Milky o r frothy oil on the engine oil dipstick.
Overheating without obvious external leak.
Bubbles in the radiator o r coolant overflow tank when the engine is running.
A pressure test and compression test performed by a mechanic will help confirm the diagnosis.
External Leak:
Visible coolant puddles o r drips under the car o r near the radiator.
Wet spots o r corrosion around radiator hoses, clamps, o r the radiator body.
Steam o r coolant spray from the front of the engine when hot.
Internal Leak e.g., Head Gasket Leak:
No visible external coolant loss but consistent in coolant levels.
White smoke o r sweet-smelling exhaust indicating burning coolant.
Milky o r frothy oil on the engine oil dipstick.
Overheating without obvious external leak.
Bubbles in the radiator o r coolant overflow tank when the engine is running.
A pressure test and compression test performed by a mechanic will help confirm the diagnosis.