Coolant leak

FLYINBRYAN

MEMBER
2005 KIA SORENTO
3.5L
V6
4WD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

I thought I had a water pump going bad so I had a service place check it, they said wasn't water pump but it was the radiator. I had them replace radiator, both hoses, thermostat, and gasket. $800.00. Two days later I had the same leak I originally had so I took it back. Now they said it was the water pump. They wanted another $800.00 so I told them to do it, after a day and a half they told me come get the car. When I arrived they told me no charge because it was still leaking antifreeze and they thought it was coming from somewhere in the block? It seems to me it's somewhere in the front of the motor. The only fluid I could see was a small trace under the harmonic balancer? Any help?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,724 POSTS

Hi,

There are a few steel lines on the top of the engine that may be the issue. Specifically, there is a water inlet tube that has an O-ring on the end where it attaches that can leak. One other thought is these steel lines can rust and leak.

There really isn't anything below the crankshaft that would leak. Take a look at the pics I attached. The first one shows all the tubes I am referring to. The second one shows where the o-ring attaches. The third shows the o-ring I'm referring to. The last pic shows the water pump and I circled the inlet. The water pump is highlighted and circled. Note that there are many connections there that can leak as well. Did they actually replace the pump because it does require the timing belt is removed? It's a lot of work.

Here is what I need you to do. You need to pressurize the system when the engine is cold and off. You will need a pressure tester, but most parts stores will lend or rent one to you. When under pressure, the leak should show itself.

Here is a link that explains how it is done:

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

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Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

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