Leaking coolant and overheating?

2004 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
141,130 MILES • 2.2L • 6 CYL • AUTOMATIC
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MARIANNE LASALLE
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  • 2 POSTS
The car won’t hold coolant; it is overheating. I had radiator and fan replaced. I fill the reservoir and it just leaks out. Seems the leak is coming from under cars right side but I’m unable to get under to find it. I’m 63-year-old disabled female. Thanks for any help you can give me before I try taking some place and get gouged.
Oct 25, 2022 at 8:23 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi,

How quickly does it leak out? Also, is it the reservoir that is leaking? When you say the right side, are you referring to the passenger side?

Let me know that. Also, take a look through this link and let me know if you are able to perform the checks.

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

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe
Oct 25, 2022 at 8:32 PM
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MARIANNE LASALLE
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Hi Joe,

Thank you for replying so quickly. It leaks immediately and the leak appears on the passenger side. The water and engine lights turned on. Also, the heater stopped working too.
Oct 26, 2022 at 4:08 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
It sounds like it is either coming from the water pump or the feed pipe between the pump and the thermostat.

Are you able to check the front of the engine with a small mechanics mirror to see if you can locate the leak? Normally, I would recommend pressure testing, but if it runs out, pressure will likely not work.

Is it possible for you to get a helper to watch for the leak location while you add coolant? I'm not sure what you are comfortable doing. However, if it runs out when you add coolant, the leak should be visible.

Joe
Oct 26, 2022 at 5:35 PM
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