‘I’m Just a Girl…In the Hospital’: Woman Blasts Radiator Fluid in Viral Car Explosion

A viral video circulating online shows a woman suffering a dangerous accident while attempting to check the radiator fluid in her car. The video, posted by Georgia Lear on TikTok, has been viewed more than 66.3 million times and serves as a cautionary example of the risks involved in performing car maintenance without proper knowledge, as per Motor1.

In the footage, the woman approaches a car with its hood open, seemingly hesitant. As she twists the radiator cap, it explodes, sending hot fluid into the air and onto the camera operator. Lear captioned the video, “We’re just girls,” and later added, “There’s been an update: That was boiling water bro…,” indicating the fluid was extremely hot at the time of the incident.

The incident has prompted widespread attention online, with nearly 50,000 comments on the post. Many users expressed concern for the woman’s safety, while others commented on the potential damage to the vehicle. Some noted the possibility of second- or third-degree burns, highlighting the dangers of opening a radiator cap while the engine is hot.

A Reminder of Safety Risks in Car Maintenance

The video underscores the importance of proper safety precautions when handling vehicle cooling systems. Radiator fluid can reach extremely high temperatures, and the cooling system remains under pressure until the engine has cooled. Opening the radiator cap before the engine has fully cooled can result in boiling fluid spraying outward, creating a significant risk of burns.

Waiting at least 30 minutes after turning off the engine before inspecting radiator fluid. Protective equipment, including gloves and safety glasses, should be worn to avoid contact with the fluid, which can cause irritation or burns. The radiator reservoir, usually a white plastic tank near the radiator, can be checked for fluid levels once the engine has cooled. Fluid should be bright colored, such as red, yellow, green, or blue; murky or debris-filled fluid may require replacement.

Topping off radiator fluid should be done carefully with a funnel, and the radiator cap must be securely closed afterward to prevent leaks. Additionally, radiator fluid is toxic if ingested, and spills should be cleaned promptly, with children and pets kept away from the area.

Much like the viral Arby’s review “That Ain’t Steak,” the TikTok post drew a mix of shock and dark humor from viewers. While some commenters genuinely worried if the woman had sustained burns, others laughed at the situation, with one joking, “I’m a man and I had no idea this would happen.”