Which component is commonly inspected to locate a coolant leak?

• A. Battery terminals only
• B. Windshield wipers
• C. Hoses, radiator, clamps, and water pump connections
• D. Engine oil filler cap

Answer: (C)

When you're looking for a coolant leak, focus on the parts that actually carry and seal the cooling fluid. The hoses, radiator, clamps, and water pump connections are where coolant under pressure is routed and suspended by seals, so leaks commonly show up there. Inspect hoses for cracks or bulges, the radiator for cracks or seepage, clamps for looseness, and the water pump connections for weeping or loose fittings. The other items don’t carry coolant: battery terminals are electrical, windshield wipers are unrelated to the cooling system, and the engine oil filler cap relates to oil, not coolant. If a leak isn’t obvious, you can use a cooling system pressure tester or UV dye to help locate it.