Where is the freeze plug located?

Replacing the Freeze Plugs The first thing to know is that the freeze plugs are located on the front, back, and sides of the engine. The front and side freeze plugs are accessible, but the rear freeze plugs are not. The transmission needs to be removed if you’re unlucky enough to have one of those leaking.

How much does it cost to replace a freeze plug?

Labor to repair a freeze plug that’s leaking could be anywhere from $100–$1,000. Prices vary depending on which one it is that needs replacement and what the labor rates are in your area. Some are easy to get to, while others require transmission removal, starter removal or motor mount removal.

Are freeze plugs hard to replace?

Replacing freeze plugs is not hard, but getting to them can be really tough with the engine in the vehicle. If you can’t get the plug replaced in the car, then you may need to visit your local NAPA AutoCare Center for assistance.

How do I replace a freeze plug?

How to Replace Freeze Plugs in Engines

1. Drain the antifreeze from your car so it doesn’t spill on the ground when you remove the freeze plug.
2. Remove the parts blocking your way to the freeze plugs.
3. Break the freeze plug free.
4. Remove the freeze plug.
5. Clean the hole that the freeze plug came out of.

What are the symptoms of a bad freeze plug?

If you have water or coolant leaking from the side of your engine or between the engine & transmission, you most likely have a bad freeze plug. Sometimes the hole in the freeze plug is very small, and can periodically be blocked by debris from the cooling system.

Do you have to drain coolant to replace freeze plug?

Open the drain valve or remove the lower radiator hose to drain the engine coolant. Strike the inside edge of the leaking freeze plug with a hammer and punch. Remove the leaking freeze plug. Using a large socket (that fits snugly into the plug), hammer in the new freeze plug evenly.

What causes leaky freeze plugs?

In some cases, as the water freezes and expands in your block, the freeze plugs will push out relieving the pressure of the freezing water and partially draining your cooling system. However, freeze plugs can also start to leak over time simply due to the heating and cooling cycles of driving your car.

How do I know if my freeze plugs are bad?

Do freeze plugs actually work?

Freeze plugs typically fail by freezing. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, though. Freeze plugs were originally used to protect engines from cold-related damage. If the coolant inside an engine freezes, it may cause the block to crack.

What are the signs of a bad freeze plug?

Where is the freeze plug on the engine block?

There are several freeze plugs on your engine block but Kat’s recommends using the one located on the passenger’s side of the engine closest to the firewall. This location is labeled as “RR” in the attached photo.

What should I do if my freeze plug is leaking?

When a leaking freeze plug is found, the engine should be checked for damage and antifreeze checked for the proper mixture and freezing point. However, freeze plugs can also start to leak over time simply due to the heating and cooling cycles of driving your car.

What happens if the water jacket of a car freezes?

In the case of the water jacket in your engine block, this is more than enough pressure to cause it to crack destroying your engine. The engine in your vehicle also has a secondary line of defense against freeze damage, freeze plugs.

How do you stop water from freezing in your car?

The cooling system in your car is susceptible to the same problem if it were to contain pure water. The best solution to this problem is the add antifreeze to water lower the temperature at which it will freeze. What happens when the water freezes in your car?