1996 SAAB 900 Head Gasket?

BOGGS

MEMBER
1996 SAAB 900
6 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
130,500 MILES

I had an overheating issue- it was 102 degrees here in NE and my gauge shot up to H. They replaced the thermostat yesterday and apparently my coolant was GONE. I had been using the AC Had it serviced on Friday last week and they said they checked all the fluids, so I have no idea where the coolant WENT. He said it wasn't in the oil and I hadn't seen it blowing out the back and he said I definitely WOULD have, so are there any other possibilities?

Today I get to work after spending $1200 on other issues and know from my mechanics telling me what to watch for, that the puff of white smoke I saw come out the back doesn't mean anything good. I am taking it in tomorrow to have it looked at any suggestions on how I can save some $$ on what could be a VERY costly additional bill for a very thin wallet?

1 Reply

MMPRINCE4000

MECHANIC
8,548 POSTS

You would see coolant coming out the exhaust, or in the oil, or on the ground. Coolant (out the exhaust) will also destroy the 02 sensor quickly.
It is also possible they did not properly refill the coolant after the thermostat change.
The head gasket(s) are probably leaking, and the heads could be warped.

You could look into the possibility of finding a used engine and replacing it, but changing the head gaskets and possibility the head can get into some big money.