Thread: Small coolant leak. Radiator drain plug

2001 grand prix

I have a slow leak on my driver side right underneath the radiator at the drain plug. There is no easy way to get to it from underneath. The car is too low and there is a plastic shield blocking me. The plug on this car in the white plastic "butterly" knob that is perpendicular to the drain itself.

I cannot post a picture. Keeps saying I am exceeding my quota even if I shrink it.


Is it as simple as replacing the knob, could the drain be faulty, any other underlying problems could cause this? Is there a way to replace it without flushing the whole system? What would you recommend.

You could always try tightening the plug. May just have worked it self a bit loose.

I tried moving it from up top but it wasn't budging plus its like 10 degrees outside. I can always wait for warmer weather, its not leaking that severe. Is there a good how-to for replacing the plug/bolt? I did a quick search and I guess you can remove the plastic cover underneath the car.

You are correct. You remove the lower air dam (that big plastic thing) and can get to it from there. Just throw some jackstands under it and go to town.

As far as replacing the plug, I'm not sure since IIRC it's all plastic. The one on my old rad has an O-ring that goes on it. Maybe yours has shrank and is leaking. Keep in mind this is on a non-OEM rad, but I would think they all have it.