Antifreeze/Coolant Loss

You're losing antifreeze, where is it going? It would be nice if all coolant leaks were dripping right out front where you can see them, but it's not always that easy. Some leaks might occur only when the engine is cold and then heat expansion may close them off. Others may only leak when warm, under pressure, and may boil or evaporate before hitting the ground, so you may not see them unless you open the hood and look for tracks. On this type of leak we often add a fluorescent dye to locate.
Heater core leaks usually be spotted by steam on the windshield or as they get worse, moisture on the floorboards.
The worst type of coolant leakage is internal, such as the intake manifold, throttle body or head gaskets. Internal intake manifold leaks on V engines are notorious for taking out engine bearings, since antifreeze destroys them in a short order.
If the engine misses in the morning for a few seconds, or you see huge amounts of white smoke, you may have a head gasket leakage.
If you're having to add coolant often and can't find the leak, have an oil analysis done to make sure the coolant is not getting into the oil.


 

 

Automotive Repair Specialists since 1973 in Eugene, Oregon and Springfield, Oregon

 

 

 

 

 

 

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