Do Stop Leak Products Work? Radiator, Oil and Head Gasket Sealers Explained

Stop leak products are some of the most popular items at any parts counter. Used the right way, they can seal small leaks and keep a vehicle on the road. Used the wrong way, they only delay a repair the vehicle really needs.

Radiator and cooling system stop leak

Radiator stop leak products circulate with the coolant and seal small pinhole leaks in the radiator, heater core or water pump area. They work best on:

• Small, slow leaks
• Seepage from minor cracks or pinholes

They will not fix a split hose, a broken radiator tank or a large crack.

Oil stop leak

Oil stop leak products condition rubber seals and gaskets so they swell slightly and seal better. They can help with slow leaks and drips from aging seals. They will not fix a cracked oil pan or a badly damaged gasket.

Head gasket sealers

Head gasket sealers can seal small head gasket leaks in some cases, often as a temporary fix. If the vehicle has severe overheating, milky oil or heavy white exhaust smoke, the engine needs a proper repair.

Tips for best results

• Read the label. Some products require a cooling system flush first, and some need the engine to run for a set time.
• Fix the cause. If a leak comes back, the part needs replacing.
• Do not over-treat. Using more than recommended can clog small passages.

Be honest with customers

Stop leak is a good short-term solution and a smart item for customers to carry in an emergency. For a long-term fix, recommend a proper diagnosis.

Sealants and stop leak we carry

RPS Distributors stocks Bar's Leaks and other sealants and stop leak products. Browse the Sealant, Stop Leak & Chemicals collection.

Request a wholesale quote or call 1-855-498-7509.