Steam From Radiator(s)

[Chapol]

Hello,

just wondering how common it is for you to see steam coming from under the hood after stopping. Usually on damp days.

I've noticed twice or more that I had some steam coming up from the front passenger side of hood on a couple occasions. I did see in the owners manual that it even states that there can be steam when the thermostat kicks on and sends fluid through the radiator.

I was only initially concerned because on a windy day I had a hay-like tumbleweed get stuck in grill in and I notice it stuck into the front "radiator". In that passenger area side of it. Which I then learned is the AC condensor and doesn't have coolant in it. So, I was assuming refrigerant wouldn't steam out. Plus I haven't been running the AC due to winter temps. So, I'm optimistically ruling that out.

No noticeable leaking anywhere.

Hoping its all just condensation evaporating off the radiator. So, just watching the coolant level for now.

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[Baxter]

Funny I just saw your post. I washed my Gladiator Friday and when I drove about 8 miles home and pulled in the driveway waiting for the garage door to open I saw steam coming out of the front passenger side of the grill. I got out and opened the hood to check it out. Didn’t see anything leaking, and the steam did not smell like coolant so I am puzzled. I drove it about 70 miles yesterday and didn’t see it again. Coolant level seems to not be going down any. Hopefully we get an answer to why this has happened.

 

[Renegade]

I’ve had 2 Gladiators, and multiple JLs/JKs with the 3.6. It’s not common unless you drive through water that gets on the engine or exhaust.

 

[GunnyB]

I own a JK & JT, both have done it for years. No leaks, no overheat - not to worry. Google it.

 

[MojaveMaximus]

I was on a trail a few weeks ago and ran through a VERY deep puddle. Water didn't come up over the hood, but probably hit about halfway up the front grill. After I came out steam started flowing up out of my front end. Admittedly, I freaked out a little. I've only seen that much steam from an overheating vehicle. But all my gauges read normal and my temperature was right in the normal range. I got out and checked everything but all seemed fine. No coolant smell.

Anyway, coming back down, hit the same puddle, got the same steam. So I guess it was just hitting the hot radiator and steaming out. Haven't noticed any problems before or since.

 

[Janster]

Were you looking for visual wet leaks??

Look again…..but look for dried crusty residue. Sometimes it can be white in color or similar color to your radiator fluid.

If you have a small leak somewhere,…. It’ll hit something hot…. STEAM … and dry up leaving the residue behind. Not a big enough leak to leave wetness or cause any drips.

If you have a small leak, it’ll be good to find what & where it is now before it gets worse.

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