1989 Honda Accord Losing Coolant

Suggested Repair

Have the cooling system pressure-tested first. If no external leak is found, perform a block test to check for exhaust gases in the coolant, which can indicate a failed head gasket.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1989 Honda Accord LXi with 140,000 miles reports losing antifreeze without visible leaks. After refilling, the upper radiator hose is hot, the lower hose is lukewarm, the temperature gauge is normal, and the heater works, but there is no pressure when the radiator cap is removed. The expert explains that a closed cooling system loses pressure through a leak and recommends a pressure test first, followed by a block test for exhaust gases in the coolant if needed.