coolant leak

2005 DODGE CARAVAN
148,000 MILES • 3.3L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
CATHY YOUNG
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
So about two weeks ago I hear a whiny noise from the engine that increases on acceleration but stops after a few days. Several days later I notice the water was low and that there appeared to be a leak under the radiator. The radiator was replaced and the codes showed the BCM might be going bad. The next day water was again leaking and this time it appears to leak from the water pump gasket to the engine. Is the water pump a coincidence? Or could the BCM be causing multiple failures? Could the code be wrong?
Oct 9, 2017 at 11:22 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Advertisement
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 34,308 POSTS
You did not say what the fault code number was, but the body computer is not related to the cooling system. Fault codes never say to replace a part or that one is bad. They only indicate the circuit or system that needs further diagnosis, or the unacceptable operating condition.

It was common on the 3.3L to have a noisy water pump. Fortunately they are real easy to replace, and not expensive. Is it possible the leaking water pump was misdiagnosed as a leaking radiator?
Oct 9, 2017 at 11:42 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
CATHY YOUNG
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
No, the first leak was in front directly under the radiator. Was told that the radiator fan was not turning on as the culprit. Radiator was still under warranty from being replaced.
Oct 10, 2017 at 4:59 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 54,178 POSTS
The radiator fan controller goes bad in these cars all the time. But I cannot see how that would make the coolant leak at the engine.

Here is a guide that can help us pinpoint the coolant leak:

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

Below is the fan controller location.

Please let us know what happens so it will help others.

Cheers, Ken
Image (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Oct 11, 2017 at 10:47 AM
Avatar
CATHY YOUNG
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Took the front wheel off and the new leak is coming from the water pump where it connects to the engine. Could the radiator and water pump failures be coincidence? Can a failing BCM cause cooling system failures?
Oct 11, 2017 at 12:37 PM
Avatar
STEVE W.
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 15,146 POSTS
The BCM wouldn't cause cooling issues. However it could be that the leaks are being caused by high pressure in the cooling system. I would top the system up with water, then use a pressure test kit to pump it up to 12-14 psi. Then see what leaks. Then drain the coolant, replace the pump (check the pump gasket area real close for scrapes/cracks) replace the pump and re-test the system. If it now holds pressure for a couple hours you should be fine. If not then it's possible you have a failing head gasket. That would pressurize the system and any weak spots can fail.
Oct 11, 2017 at 1:41 PM