Radiator leak

Hi,

If you are adding coolant, it has to be either leaking, mixing with the oil (which you said it isn't), or it is getting burned.

Have you ever noticed white smoke from the exhaust? Also, if you place cardboard under the engine compartment, is there any evidence of a leak?

Do me a favor. Take a look through this link and let me know if it helps:

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

See if you can find any evidence of dry/burnt coolant as described in the link. If you are unable to, then I would suggest pressure testing the system. Here is a link that explains how it's done.

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

Let me know if you are able to find anything. Also, let me know if you ever notice the odor in the vehicle.

Take care,

Joe

No white smoke, never ran hot, isn't mixed with oil. It just smells like it burns while I drive.

Hi,

That's good news. At least at this point, we don't have to worry about a head gasket. If you are smelling it in the vehicle, did you check to see if the heater core may be leaking? Feel the carpet on the passenger side to make sure it isn't leaking.

If there is nothing, the best thing to do is look for evidence of dried coolant at different connectors, the radiator, the intake, and so on. If nothing is noticed, then I would pressure test it. This is done when the engine is cold and gives you the chance to check things without getting burned. Plus, you will see if it holds pressure.

If it doesn't hold pressure and you are unable to locate a leak, the next step would be to get a dye for the cooling system. Drive the vehicle and then, with a specific type of light, check to see if there is any evidence.

Keep in mind, the water pump could be leaking as well. However, it's driven by the timing chain, and you really can't see it. Check at the bottom of the timing cover at the front of the engine as well.

Let me know if I can help in any way.

Take care,

Joe