Leaking coolant?

Tiny
SHYKEILAD
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 FORD CROWN VICTORIA
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 1,260,000 MILES
I put coolant in my car, and it leaked but I can't see where it’s leaking it's not under the car but I put coolant in there again and it came but up and started smoking. If I don’t see no leak, then what the problem?
Tuesday, December 6th, 2022 AT 5:14 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

Where did you see smoking? Was the smoking from the coolant hitting something hot? Also, does the engine start and run? Let me know. The idea that it is leaking, you see smoke, and there is nothing leaking under the vehicle may indicate a faulty head gasket. That is why I asked if it runs.

Take a look through this link and let me know if any of the things discussed mirror what you experience:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

Also, here is a link to help locate the leak:

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

If you are still unable to locate the leak, you will need to perform a pressure test. You will need a pressure gauge for the cooling system, but most parts stores will lend one to you.

Here is a link that explains how to perform the test:

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

Let me know what you find and as much information as you can. Also, if the engine isn't running, record it cranking and upload it for me to hear. If it is running, let me know if there seems to be a misfire and if the check engine light is staying on while it runs.

Take care,

joe

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Tuesday, December 6th, 2022 AT 5:49 PM
Tiny
SHYKEILAD
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
The car crank and it’s running, and it doesn’t misfire. Yes, it has a check engine light on.
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Tuesday, December 6th, 2022 AT 6:59 PM
Tiny
SHYKEILAD
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
The smoke comes when I put coolant in there and I let it sit there then it overflows and smoke comes out of the reservoir.
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Tuesday, December 6th, 2022 AT 7:01 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

I can't be certain, but the idea that you lose the coolant as described sounds like you may have a head gasket issue.

Take a look through the head gasket test link I attached above and let me know if anything mirrors what you are experiencing.

Let me know.

Joe
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Wednesday, December 7th, 2022 AT 3:21 PM

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