Nissan Repair: coolant, coolant level, head gasket

Question
QUESTION: I noticed a few months ago my coolant level was low.  I find myself putting more coolant in ( 50/50 mix ) over the last few months.   Suggestions?  Is it a leak, what do I look for before opening myself up to a repair shop?

Thanks.

ANSWER: Matt,

If you are using coolant and it is not running on the ground you probably have a small headgasket leak.  You can have this checked at a shop.  They will perform a test to look for exhaust gas in the coolant.  If it is present it is most probably the headgasket.  Be sure to check your oil for the presense of antifreeze as well.  Stop leak additives will work for a time.  But, you run the risk of plugging up the cooling system down the road.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi,
Follow up.  I have read that if there is a head gasket issue, usually there is white smoke coming out of the tailpipe.  Is that true?  I have looked when I started the car and some smoke comes out but I think it is condensation because it goes away after a bit.  I checked several times after driving a few miles and I don't see smoke or smell a sweet smell that I have heard as well.

any thoughts|?

Thanks again for your quick response.

Answer
Matt,

I understand what you are saying.  But, if you are not really using much coolant and it is not leaking on the ground the engine is consuming it and blowing it out the exhaust.  Are you sure you do not have a leak?  Cause, if it is not leaking on the ground it is being consumed...