Coolant Leak
Coolant is usually bright green, orange, or pink and smells sweet. A leak drops the level and eventually leads to overheating.
Should you keep driving?
A slow leak is manageable short-term if you watch the level, but running low leads straight to overheating damage.
Common causes
Cracked or loose hoseRubber hoses harden and split with age — a common and cheap fix.
Radiator leakPlastic end tanks and the core crack over time, especially in older cars.
Water pump sealA weeping pump drips coolant, often near the front of the engine.
Bad gasketA failing intake or head gasket can leak coolant internally or externally.
Rather have a pro handle it? Find a vetted local mechanic.