Why Is My Vape Leaking? Common Causes and How to Fix It

A leaking vape is one of the most frustrating issues for users. Most vapers look for root causes like faulty seals, coil issues, thin e-liquid, or improper filling techniques. This guide breaks down the reasons why your vape is leaking, how to stop it, and what you can do to prevent leaks from happening again—whether you’re using a pod system, disposable, or tank.

Overfilling the Tank or Pod

One of the most frequent causes of leakage is filling the tank past the recommended line. When there’s no air pocket left, the e-liquid forces itself through the airflow or coil openings. Always leave a small air gap to allow pressure to regulate inside the tank.

Fix:

Fill up to the max line, not above it, and keep the device upright for a few minutes after refilling.

Damaged or Worn O-Rings

O-rings act as seals to keep e-liquid from escaping. When they become loose, cracked, or misplaced, the tank can leak from the bottom or sides.

Fix:

Disassemble the tank and inspect the seals. If they look worn out, replace them. Many popular tanks include spare O-rings in the box.

Thin (High-PG) E-Liquid

High-PG or low-viscosity e-liquids are more prone to leaking, especially on sub-ohm tanks or devices designed for thicker, high-VG juices. If the e-liquid flows too easily, it can seep through the coil and airflow openings.

Fix:

Switch to a 70/30 VG/PG blend if you’re using a high-power or large-coil device. For MTL pods, a 50/50 ratio is usually ideal.

Coil Flooding

Flooding happens when too much e-liquid saturates the coil. This often leads to gurgling, spitback, and leaking through the bottom airflow.

Common causes of flood coils:

• Inhaling too forcefully
• Using a worn coil
• Incorrect wattage
• Leaving the device unused for long periods

Fix:

Remove the coil and gently blow through it to clear extra liquid. Replace the coil if it’s old or burnt.

Incorrect Inhaling Technique

Pulling too hard on an MTL pod can create negative pressure, drawing excess e-liquid into the airflow and causing leaks.

Fix:

Take slower, steadier puffs. For DTL devices, make sure airflow is open and wattage is set correctly.

Improper Storage

Leaving your vape in a hot car, laying it on its side, or storing it upside down can cause liquid expansion and leaks.

Fix:

Store the device upright at room temperature. Avoid leaving it in extremely hot environments.

Cracked Pod or Tank

A small crack in the pod, tank glass, or plastic housing can cause the e-liquid to slowly seep out. Many users only notice the leak after placing the device in a pocket or bag.

Fix:

Replace the cracked part or use a new pod. Tighten all components but avoid overtightening, which can cause hairline cracks.

8. Using the Wrong Coil for the E-Liquid

Coils with large wicking ports are designed for thicker e-liquids. Using thin liquids (like nic salts) in a sub-ohm coil often results in leaking.

Fix:

Match the coil type to the e-liquid:

• Nic salts: MTL coils, small wicking holes
• Freebase 70/30: Sub-ohm coils, wide ports

9. Old or Expired E-Liquid

E-liquid becomes thinner over time, especially if exposed to heat. This increases leaking risks.

Fix:

Check the expiry date and replace old or separated e-liquid.

How to Prevent Vape Leaking in the Future

• Keep the device upright when not in use
• Avoid extreme heat
• Replace coils regularly
• Choose the right VG/PG ratio
• Don’t overfill
• Make sure the mouthpiece and airflow are clean

These small habits significantly reduce leakage issues and help your device last longer.

Conclusion

A vape can leak for several reasons, most commonly due to overfilling, worn O-rings, thin e-liquid, coil flooding, or using the wrong type of juice for your coil. Issues like cracked pods, improper inhaling technique, and poor storage—such as leaving the device on its side or in heat—also contribute to leakage. By filling correctly, choosing the right VG/PG ratio, storing the device upright, and replacing coils or damaged parts when needed, users can prevent most leaks and keep their vape performing smoothly.

FAQs

1. Why is my vape leaking from the bottom?

A bottom leak usually happens when the coil is flooded, the O-rings are worn, or the tank isn’t tightened properly. Thin e-liquid can also seep through the airflow. Cleaning the airflow, reinstalling the coil, or replacing seals typically solves the issue.

2. Why does my vape leak when it's lying down?

Most vapes are designed to stay upright. When the device is on its side, e-liquid collects around the airflow and can escape through small openings. Keeping the vape vertical and avoiding heat exposure helps prevent this.

3. Why is my disposable vape leaking?

Disposable vapes leak when the internal coil becomes oversaturated or the casing is damaged. Heat exposure, squeezing the device, or manufacturing defects can also cause leakage. If the device leaks heavily, it’s best to replace it.

4. How do I stop my pod vape from leaking?

Make sure the pod is fully clicked into place, avoid overfilling, and check for cracks around the mouthpiece or base. Using the right VG/PG ratio (often 50/50 for pods) and taking gentle puffs instead of hard draws also reduces leaking.

5. Can the wrong e-liquid make my vape leak?

Yes. High-PG or thin e-liquids flow too easily through coils with large wicking ports, leading to leaks. Matching your e-liquid to your coil—high VG for sub-ohm tanks and balanced blends for pods—helps maintain proper pressure and prevents seepage.