coolant loss

[dirtwarrior]

I lose coolant with my 3.7. Doesdn't seem to be a lot but I add some every few months. How do I check the loss?

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[SheepDog]

1st step is a pressure tester.

Radiator Pressure Test Kit

 

[Skye]

For perspective, how much coolant are you adding?

- Coolant often leaves a residue behind, like limescale-looking deposits. Look for any traces of water/coolant which might have leaked and then dried

- Check the oil. If milky in color, you could have a internal engine leak

- When the heater core is leaking, you'll smell the burnt antifreeze smell

- Pay attention to the exhaust, white smoke especially

- If you run any pressure testing, slowly do it when the engine is stone-ass cold

- Begin recording how much you're adding and when

- Remove the cabin filter. Look for any signs of moisture

- Remove the floor mats. Feel for any slickness, like coolant

- Inspect the radiator hoses for any signs of deposits and residue

- Using a mirror and a light, inspect the bottom of the snout of the water pump for residue

- Look in the grill and radiator area, both faces of the radiator and side tanks, for residue

- Small leaks can sometimes be seen when the engine is cold; they then seal when hot

 

[dirtwarrior]

Thanks guys I will do all suggested

 

[SheepDog]

Thanks guys I will do all suggested

Like Skye suggested, look for evidence of the heater core leaking, if you aren't seeing coolant anywhere obvious in the engine bay or on the ground. Early S550 cars were plagued with heater core issues.

 

[HeelToeHero]

Like Skye suggested, look for evidence of the heater core leaking, if you aren't seeing coolant anywhere obvious in the engine bay or on the ground. Early S550 cars were plagued with heater core issues.

Are you thinking the Ac evaporator core? I haven't heard of heater core issues...

Also the manual refers to a normal amount of top up required for coolant so I would also see if you're in line with that.

 

[SheepDog]

Are you thinking the Ac evaporator core? I haven't heard of heater core issues...

Also the manual refers to a normal amount of top up required for coolant so I would also see if you're in line with that.

There were a rash of heater core leaks on here back in the day, but yes, the AC Evaporator core is an issue as well.

 

[Decosse]

I had a 16 3.7 that developed a water pump leak. It was only a seep from the weep hole. When I took it in to be checked, they couldn't find it at first. Then they saw just a small wet spot near the bottom pulley. Got it fixed right then; it was only going to get worse.

 

[dirtwarrior]

I had a 16 3.7 that developed a water pump leak. It was only a seep from the weep hole. When I took it in to be checked, they couldn't find it at first. Then they saw just a small wet spot near the bottom pulley. Got it fixed right then; it was only going to get worse.

Was it expensive?

 

[Decosse]

Was it expensive?

Afraid so. Around US $1700. That included a cooling system Service and warranty. Shop around, I know I paid a premium, but I also know it was done right. You should be able to get a quote before oking.

 

[SCP440]

I had a radiator cap cause this a few years ago on a 2004 car, it would pass every pressure test and no drips or sign of loss. A new cap and no more coolant loss.

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