Helping my brother figure out an overheating issue with his 2012 Focus. It seems like there’s a waterfall of coolant leaking out above the coolant outlet. Could it be a cracked engine block? Any advice on what this would take to repair or if it’s worth it?
Sounds like you’ll need a new engine.
Dez said:
Sounds like you’ll need a new engine.
Might as well go all out and swap in a twin turbo V8! 
Dez said:
Sounds like you’ll need a new engine.
Might as well go all out and swap in a twin turbo V8!
Hell Focus
I’d say you’re probably right, but I wouldn’t hold out hope for an easy fix. If the block is cracked and leaking coolant, you might get away with some stop leak if you need it to get around temporarily, but welding might be your only fix. Honestly, it’s time to consider either a new engine or a different car.
I had a similar issue with my 2013 Titanium! It turned out to be a problem with the freeze plug. Mine was fixable—my buddy removed it, resealed it, and it’s been leak-free. Might be worth a shot, especially if it’s an affordable fix.
You might want to check the reverse side of the coolant manifold (the big black plastic part right where the leak is). When these engines overheat, the seal on that manifold can push out and cause a leak that looks just like this. Sometimes, it cracks the plastic manifold itself, so you’ll need to replace it. You can find the part on RockAuto for $30-40. It’s DIY-friendly if you don’t mind removing the battery tray and a few hoses.
@Vance
Totally agree with this. Mine leaked in the same spot last year. I ended up replacing the manifold and gasket, and it’s been fine since. Over time, I’ve had to replace almost all the coolant connections on my ‘12.
Sounds like he overheated it to the point of cracking the block.
I had the same issue; turned out to be the plastic water outlet housing. My engine actually never overheated, surprisingly.
It’s probably just the coolant outlet flange gasket. I replaced mine on my 2012 Focus not too long ago.
It could be a freeze plug issue. Worth a shot to replace it—could save a lot if that’s all it is!
Looks like a freeze plug might have popped out.
One of the transmission issues with these cars can start with coolant leaks from the block plugs or housing. Coolant can get into the transmission and mess up the bearings over time.
That’s the coolant outlet. Just replace it, and you should be good to go. It’s a cheap part.
Looks like a bad seal on the coolant flange.
I think I see a fracture to the left of the hole. Is that hole supposed to have a freeze plug?