Radiator Cap Leaking Question

[alice]

What would cause the radiator cap to leak? I just topped off my coolant today and now coolant is leaking out of the radiator cap. My overflow is about half an inch over the max line as well. Should I empty it out a bit? I am afraid to drive my car if the cap is leaking. Also, I know the system is not clogged because I just cleaned it all out.

 

[hhuricane]

Could be worn out. They don't last forever. Replace it and see if that cures your problem.

 

[rstchris]

You can test it but it's cheap enough to just replace. Try warming the car up all the way while it's capped up and squeeze the upper hose while hot to make sure it's holding pressure. If not, replace the cap.

 

[LiquidX]

+1 on both replies

Cheap fix and might as well grab a new one as it's not sealing. I would tell you to stick with an OEM cap or of one with the same pressure rating. No need to get a higher pressure cap unless you are having cooling issues.