c5 radiator leak

[scas]

hi, my 06 c5 2.0d auto has a leak in the radiator, sometimes the coolant leaks at about 3-5 drops per second, sometimes i only notice because theres a very small puddle under it when its parked and sometimes it doesnt leak for a week at a time. i dont drive it much obviously but has anyone came across this before-it doesnt make sense to me

[GiveMeABreak]

It will probably leak more when the engine is running obviously as the water is being circulated and therefore forced out and of course when hot coolant expands. What you need to do is determine whether the radiator fin (s) have been damaged or whether it is a hose loose clip or a split pipe. Cleaning the area up first and then letting the engine run will help you to trace the leak - but be mindful of the fan (s) kicking in. Switch off the A/C to stop it running immediately, but when the engine gets too hot it will kick in anyway.

Some choose to use something like Rad Weld for radiator leaks, but I personally would not put anything other than coolant into modern cars, as I wouldn't want any gunk in the system.

[scas]

thanks for the reply, it never leaks when its not running and its leaking from where the fins (?) meet the bottom. ive just never came across one that will stop for a week.

[GiveMeABreak]

Probably because it's a small hole / crack / split and the coolant system isn't under as much pressure / load when the water pump isn't turning and the pressure is lower when colder. There may be a bit of sediment or something that is also intermittently blocking the leaking area.

[EDC5]

thanks for the reply, it never leaks when its not running and its leaking from where the fins (?) meet the bottom. ive just never came across one that will stop for a week.

Is that where the metal fins meet the end-cap part of the radiator?

It does surprise me that the C5 doesn't have a low coolant sensor like so many other (and even old PSA) vehicles had... madness!

[scas]

it looks fairly easy to change it, can anyone post a link to buy one as here in ireland they seem to be about 150 euro -non genuine

[GiveMeABreak]

Pop up or PM your VIN and I'll get the correct part number for you - I would not rely on third party databases, as they are rarely correct, and these are different by engine and build number.

[white exec]

Try Mister Auto - Nissens is a good brand. Check the dimensions of yours against the listing. Often include the original part no., so Marc's confirmation of it should help.

[scas]

vin is VF7**************[VIN obfuscated, can be read by forum staff]*********

[GiveMeABreak]

Here you go:

Part 1330T1. £272.84 Brand new from Citroen inc. VAT.

They can be got from here for £79.74 inc. delivery.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/CITROEN-C5-M ... SwYlRZJd2D

[scas]

many thanks to all, got one on mister auto for 82 euros