1998 Acura CL

LILROCHEAD

MEMBER
1998 ACURA CL
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
126,000 MILES

My car tends to get close to over heating because of lack of antifreeze. Now everyday I add fluid to the radiator once the overheating happens, but my problem is I can't find where it's leaking at. I changed the thermostat thinking it was'nt opening on time, but the problem is still happening. The muffler does'nt throw white smoke so I don't think its the head gasket, so do you think you can give me some advise. Thanx

1 Reply

BRUCE HUNT

MECHANIC
3,754 POSTS

The theory of white smoke is true as pertaining to surning off water or water vapor. But, the burning can be so clean as to be unnoticeable. So, do check of the radiator to see if there is any moisture on the upper part. I am looking for a crack. This can allow moisure out as steam slowly and affect the operation of the vehicle by not allowing it to properly pressurize the system.

Then I would check the oil to be sure there is no antifreeze in the oil. I doubt there is.

You can have a leak down test performed on the vehicle and it will tell the story, but I do suspect that if there is no leak at the radiator, you have a head gasket that is going out. Have it replaced and the head checked for warp and cracking. Have it planed and a new head gasket installed.