Radiator fluid consumption but no leak.

1997 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
143,500 MILES
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ROD ASH
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
My cooling system was filled with radiator fluid in Dec 2010. In May of 2011 I got an oil change and was told the radiator fluid was low but there were no leaks and no signs of radiator fluid in the oil. I got another oil change this month (Sept 2011) and radiator fluid is low again. A pressure check was done and I was told it's holding pressure. The vehicle has not overheated. I have even taken two 8 hour trips with no issues. However the exhaust pipes are white at the tips. What could be the problem? What needs to be checked?

Thanks
Sep 24, 2011 at 7:48 AM
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PROMECHANIC
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 536 POSTS
The best thing to do is check it periodically. If there was no leak when they did the pressure test (assuming they did it correctly) then you shouldn't have anything to worry about. Sometimes there will only be a leak when the engine is warm and if the test was done with it cold then it might not have shown up.
It also might be because the cooling system was never truly full. When you fill it you need to fill it until it won't take anymore then start the car and let it warm up, then stop it and let it cool down, then re-fill. Do this until it won't take anymore.
This could be part of the problem.
Sep 24, 2011 at 8:30 PM
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