Steam & Coolant Smell from Front with Visible Radiator Leak

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Steam & Coolant Smell from Front with Visible Radiator Leak

My Proton X70 started emitting a sweet coolant smell from the front of the car along with some white steam while idling in traffic. I also noticed a small wet patch on the radiator near the top hose connection. Could this indicate a loose radiator hose, faulty hose clamp, o r radiator gasket issue? What are common causes of this in Pakistani traffic and hot weather?

Talha Kyanii asked on 19 Dec 2025 17:09:44 pm

1 Answer

7 views |

Gari Master - on 19 Dec 2025 17:11:11 pm

A sweet smell plus visible steam and wet patches near the top radiator hose point to coolant escaping under heat and pressure:

Likely Reasons:

Loose o r Faulty Upper Radiator Hose Clamp: If the clamp isn’t tight, pressurized coolant escapes at hose connections.

Worn Upper Hose o r Weak Gasket: The rubber hose o r seal can harden over time and allow leakage at high engine temperatures.

Radiator Neck Seal Leak: The area where the hose meets the radiator can fail, especially near hot zones.

What to Do:
✔ Tighten hose clamps and check for hose cracks.
✔ Examine the upper hose for soft spots o r bulges.
✔ If steam continues, avoid driving and get it checked — steam means coolant is boiling off near o r under the hood.

Tip: In Pakistani traffic heat, a loose clamp o r worn hose often leaks first when the engine idles and pressure builds up.