Nissan Repair: 2000 Nissan Frontier head gasket and red liquid, head gasket replacement, coolant system

Question
Hi Calvin,
I have recently had my Frontier 4x4 SE truck looked at by a mechanic and he reported to me the head gasket is seeping antifreeze and to watch out for the temp in the truck.  I have since been watching it and have heard more noises coming from under the truck and found the heat shields from the exhaust are loose from rust, in fact, some have come off and just hanging there.  As I was looking i also noticed a red liquid starting to drip out from an aluminum looking part i think is the transmission.  I think it is transmission fluid but not sure.  I am very concerned about antifreeze issue pointed out to me and the transmission fluid being visible.  The drip wasn't making to the ground yet but was hanging on to the aluminum part.  Can you offer suggestions about what the best course of action should be when i take to someone to look at?  I do owe a little bit on the truck still less than $2000 before the truck is paid off. I wonder if it is worth fixing it or not?  I guess that might be difficult to answer, but just looking for an opinion.  Thank you for your time.  Best, Dan

Answer
Hi Dan -

Without being there and having me look at the engine, it is difficult to offer an accurate synopsis. However I will say that if the head/block is seeping antifreeze, yes, you should give it a watch. It may even seal itself, perhaps get a good coolant system sealer, and it might do the trick. Other than that, the only other option is a head gasket replacement, perhaps a little over 1K.

The red fluid is transmission fluid. Ensure all the pan bolts are tight ans secure.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin