Coolant leak

LYNN LAM

MEMBER
2010 DODGE JOURNEY
3.5L
V6
4WD
AUTOMATIC
170,000 MILES

I'm in a parking lot and went to turn on my car and it sounded weird like a pump making noise like it was pumping something out. When I backup I notice a huge coolant leak in the front passenger side. Even parked at home it steadily leaks even the next day while sitting there. Had it taken to a garage and they cant find the location so they assume it's a head gasket. But they don't know for sure.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,709 POSTS

Welcome to 2CarPros.

Here is what I suggest. You need to locate the problem. It could be several things. Most times, a head gasket will not leak as much as described, so that is at the bottom of my list. Instead, since they didn't see specifically where the leak was coming from, I have a feeling it could be the water pump.

The water pump is driven by the timing belt on this vehicle, so you can't see it. There is an o-ring where it mounts on the engine and there is what is called a weep hole that can leak when the bearing or seal goes bad in the pump.

Since this requires the timing belt to be removed, we need to make sure it is the problem. What I need you to do is get a cooling system pressure tester. Most parts stores will lend one to you. When the engine is cold, you will attach the tester to the cooling system and pressurize it. When pressurized, it will cause the system to leak if there is a problem. With the engine cold, you can take your time to locate the issue.

I'm a bit stumped as to why they couldn't find it if the leak is as bad as you mentioned. Also, the water pump is on the passenger side, so if it isn't a hose, chances are the pump has failed.

Here is a link that shows how to pressure test the cooling system. Follow the directions. I am also adding a few other links you may find of interest. The last one discusses replacement of a water pump. It doesn't pertain to your vehicle, but it does show the weep hole of a bad one and how they leak.

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

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

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-water-pump

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/water-pump-replacement

Also, I attached a pic of the pump and how it is located. If you determine it is the pump, I will provide specific directions for replacement and how to remove and replace the timing belt. I circled the water pump in the picture. The pulley wheels are where a portion of the belt would ride.

If it is leaking as bad as you said, it shouldn't be hard to find. Regardless, let me know if you have questions or need help.

Take care,
Joe

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