1999 Ford Taurus Radiator Fulid Leak

FIADRAMA

MEMBER
1999 FORD TAURUS
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
175,000 MILES

I can run the car without using the air or heat and there is no leak. After I ran the car I parked it and left it running. Still no leak. I turned on the heater. It got hot, but still no leak, even after 5 minutes. I turned it over to the Max A/C and turned the temperature to Max Cool and the car started leaking again. Turning it back to Heat did not stop the leak. I let the car sit overnight and drove the car to work without the heater or A/C running and the car did not leak. Ion.

4 Replies

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,910 POSTS

Is the leaking liquid clear or green and where is it landing on the ground?

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Wednesday, June 22nd, 2011 AT 6:38 PM

FIADRAMA

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Green

SPONSORED LINKS

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Wednesday, June 22nd, 2011 AT 7:08 PM

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,910 POSTS

There's two tests you can do to find the source of the leak. The easiest is just a normal pressure test. Many auto parts stores rent or borrow tools and they will have a pressure test kit. Pump the system up to 10 - 15 pounds, then search for dripping coolant.

For more elusive and slower leaks, you can add a small bottle of dye in the radiator, drive the car long enough to mix it up and for the leak to start, then search with a black light. The dark purple dye will show up as a bright yellow stain that you can follow to the source of the leak.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Wednesday, June 22nd, 2011 AT 7:19 PM