QuestionGreetings!
I have a fast leakage in my coolant system. Every morning, I have to fill the reservoir with Dexcool 50/50 before driving. I have to drive very steadily on the expressway in order for the temperature gauge to stay above the red line. When I drive for more than 60 mph, the engine starts to cool a little, but I'm almost positive this is only due to the air intake. When I drive on the street after driving on the expressway at around 60, the coolant starts to leak very fast. When I come back to my car after leaving my destination, I find myself having to refill the coolant for a second time that day. In about 65 degree weather and above, I keep getting a message saying 'Engine Hot - A/C Off'. Nothing I do to the car keeps it from going to the red line on the temperature gauge. I've been driving the car very soft lately, and it still gradually moves to the red line.
Some additional information: I keep the air conditioner off while driving. I haven't had it on since this problem started. That being said, why would the car still leak coolant from the heater core?...provided that's my problem.
Also, the car is at 94k miles. Recent work done on the car is having all spark plugs,wires, and boots changed to platinum AC Delco. I have an oil change scheduled in 2 months. I recently installed a dual 12' subwoofer in the rear (not sure if power stolen from battery to drive the subs could cause the car to overheat). I receive no special codes from the OBD. It only shows historical codes. I've found that when it rains, the car is safer to drive.
I took the car to 2 separate mechanics. The first said that my heater core needs to be replaced along with the thermostat. The second mechanic said that they checked the car out and did't see anything that would cause the leakage. I'm confused and scared that worst case scenario of blown heads is my issue. I've already purchased a new Delco heater core, but I want to make sure that is my problem. Please advise me as to why my engine is overheating and loosing coolant. With summer approaching, I'd like to fix this car now. Thanks much.
AnswerIf you have a heater core leak you would have anti-freeze under the front passengers rug and it would be wet OR you would see an external puddle of anti-freeze coolant on the ground under the car.
Have the coolant system pressure tested to locate the leak. This will tell you if your heater core is leaking or you have a blown head gasket.
Is the cooling fan working correctly ?.
