Coolant leak?

1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD
30,000 MILES • 4.6L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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PATRICKNL
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
When i top off my coolant it drops down within a few weeks to a minimum and stays there, so it doesn't leak further than that.
How's that possible?

Also, when my radiator fan kicks in (on temperature) my battery light flickers.
Jun 24, 2023 at 10:39 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi,

I agree, that is odd. If I had the vehicle in front of me, I would fill the coolant reservoir to the full mark and then pressure test the system. You would do this with the engine cold so you can take your time looking for possible leaks.

If this happens constantly and never goes below the minimum, it is safe to drive, but like you, I would like to know why.

Try pressure testing it to see if you see anything. You will need a pressure tester, but most parts stores will lend one to you.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

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

Also, take a look through this link, it explains how to locate and repair a leak:

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

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe
Jun 24, 2023 at 9:53 PM
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