1997 Mercedes Benz 280 water pump or radiator?

SFROST

MEMBER
1997 MERCEDES BENZ 280

Engine Cooling problem
1997 Mercedes Benz 280 6 cyl 139000 miles

My car initially began running hot, then the water light (I guess it is a water light) started coming on. We have to put water in the car constantly, and recently the check engine light came on. We have tried a "stop Leak" solution and 50/50 coolant from the local auto parts store. Pretty much did nothing, we carefully did as instructed, so I don't think it was our error, but I am not sure. Typically, we don't have to add water as frequently when we are not running the a/c, which we try to avoid. Today, after doing so, the water light came on, and when we got home and turned the car off, I noticed smoke coming from that spot (from under the hood) it is almost directly in front of the passenger side window. Please help if possible.

1 Reply

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

Hi there,

Firstly stop leaks are a waste of money and time as they can do more damage than good, but that is another story. What you need to do first is get the cooling system pressure tested as this will locate any external coolant leaks, do this and have any leaks repaired first.

Mark (mhpautos)