Cooling system — leak test (Audi 80 B4)

If the engine is hot and the cooling system is under operating pressure, then checking for leaks is quite simple.

1. Make sure the coolant circulation hoses on the radiator, engine and heater are tightly secured.

2. Make sure that the hoses are not cracked by bending them. At the same time, also check that the rubber of the hoses has not hardened and become brittle. If such defects are found, replace the hoses immediately.

3. Make sure that the hoses are seated deep enough on the fittings.

4. Make sure the hose clamps are tightly tightened.

5. Replace rusty hose clamps. They may break while driving.

In workshops, the tightness of the cooling system is checked using a special device consisting of an air injection pump and a pressure gauge. This device is installed on the opening of the filler neck of the expansion tank and the pressure is pumped up to approximately 1 bar. If this pressure does not decrease within 1-2 minutes, then the cooling system is tight.