White smoke/steam after it gets hot

TAMMCLEOD503

MEMBER
2004 DODGE INTREPID
16,500 MILES

Potential buy, but after driving off the lot steam/ smoke rising from both sides of engine. There is leakage on engine and the radiator fluid is over filled.

Should I pressure test it? How do I do that? Should I buy this?

Sunday, March 25th, 2012 AT 4:07 AM

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Hi,

If you feel there is a cooling system leak, that is somewhat easy to check. If you look through this link, it explains how in general to repair a coolant leak:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-is-leaking-coolant

If that doesn't help, then I recommend pressure testing the system. You will need a pressure tester, but most parts stores will lend one to you. Here is a link that explains the procedure for pressure testing a cooling system:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/radiator-pressure-test

I am a bit worried as to why the cooling system was overfilled. Is there something the seller is trying to hide or is there an engine problem such as a head gasket? If you want, take a look through this link. It explains the most common symptoms related to a failed cylinder head gasket. It explains what to look for.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

As far as making the purchase, that is really hard for me to determine without being there. I always tell people, "Buyer Beware." If something is off, it's usually for a reason.

Take care and please feel free to let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe