2007 Saturn Ion coolant level slowly dropping

QUESTION216

MEMBER
2007 SATURN ION

I have a 2007 saturn ion with 216k miles on it. It runs great but the coolant level in the reservoir drops approximately 3/4 of an inch every 3 to 4 days. There is a small amount of oil in the coolant reservoir. The oil level is normal and is not milky or foamy. My question is, do you think it is most likely the head gasket or a possible crack in the head or block? I haven't done a compression check yet but How would I know if it was a crack or just a bad gasket? Wouldn't it leak down either way?

3 Replies

SATURNTECH9

MECHANIC
30,869 POSTS

Are you sure there is oil in the coolant?That's really rare on those engines. I saw a few early built 2003 ions do that but that's about it. As far as the coolant loss I would look for external leak first.I would try replacing the coolant cap a bad cap can loose coolant thru steam escaping. You can use coolant dye to find coolant leaks using a dye light.

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Friday, September 27th, 2013 AT 4:41 PM

QUESTION216

MEMBER
2 POSTS

There is definitely oil in the coolant reservoir. I replaced the upper and lower radiator hoses late last year and there was a film of oil on the inside of the hoses. There is no steam coming from the exhaust and the engine runs normally. The coolant loss started about 2 months ago. I only had to add coolant about once every 2 weeks. Lately I am having to add it about every 4 days. Thank you for the suggestion. I will replace the cap and see if it cures the problem.

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Friday, September 27th, 2013 AT 6:24 PM

SATURNTECH9