I have had to top up my engine coolent 3 times in the last 6 months what could be the problem

MREED1988

MEMBER
2004 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
50,100 MILES

Hi, I drive a vw golf 1.6 04 reg. In the last six months I have had to top up my coolent 3 times after my warning light has come on. When I pull over to top up as I take the cap off I here the system depressurise. I cannot see any white substance around or in the oild filler cap. I cannot see any obvious signs of the coolent leaking inside the car or in the engine compartment. Please helpmatt

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

It has to be going somewhere. Have you ever noticed white smoke from the exhaust? Is there anything in the oil (not just the cap)?

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Monday, October 10th, 2011 AT 2:34 AM

MREED1988

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3 POSTS

Hello no I havnt notice any white smoke at all. I have had the dip stick out and the oil looks fine.

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Monday, October 10th, 2011 AT 2:42 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

There has to be a leak then. What I suggest is to get a cooling system pressure tester from a parts store. Most will lend them and pressurize the system and check for leaks. DO THIS WITH THE ENGINE COLD. Remove the rad cap and install the hand held pressure pump and take the system to the max pressure listed on the radiator cap. Check all hoses, check around the head, check freeze plugs.

PS: Sorry it took long to get back to you. For some reason the notification on my email took it to spam.

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Monday, October 10th, 2011 AT 5:37 AM

MREED1988

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Ok thnakyou no probs about late reply. The car is booked in for a mot and service in the next few weeks shall I mention it to them when I take it in? May save me a few pounds if I do it then rather than take it to a garage before.

Matt

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Monday, October 10th, 2011 AT 8:11 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

That would be fine. However, I recommend you keep a close eye on the coolant level. Make sure it is always full; otherwise, you will end up with new problems.