engine coolant level - below minimum

[sniper]

The engine coolant level light came on two days ago. I had a look at the level - it was below minimum. I bought some coolant "top up" from Halfords - poured in approx 1L. Check two days later (200 miles) revealed the level is ok.

Why would the coolant level drop like this? Is there a leak or is it acceptable consumption?

I had the car serviced approx 4k miles ago - and as far as I know - the level was ok (although I didnt check it myself)

Any ideas?

Sniper

 

[Rodney Naghar]

Could be one of three things:-

1) Leaking radiators
2) Cracked header tank/expansion tank (common and likely)
3) Faulty header tank/expansion tank cap

Your cheapest and first port of call should be to replace the existing cap for the newest model ending with number .02
If that doesn't work then get the expansion tank checked for cracks....a new one is around £65 from Eurocarparts +2 hours labour.
If it's the rads, you may be covered under warranty depending on why they are damaged (if you have warranty)

 

[sniper]

Cheers for the advice.

Much appreciated.

Sniper

 

[Guest]

Just had a similar thing on my 996 TT. 2 pools of coolant under the engine and the level below minimum and it happened when it was cold. But I think I have found the source. Under the engine run 2 alloy coolant pipes with small drain plugs at the low points; both of the plugs were wet. It went to the OPD today and they confirmed that its the washer on the drain plug that is leaking. When its hot no leaks, it cools then a small leak starts. My guess is that they have been removed a few months back and the washers weren't changed.

Worth a check and its cheap and simple to fix.

 

[sniper]

I filled the engine coolant with some halfords top up around 1000miles ago.

Checked today - no drop in the level.

Do I still need to get it checked out at dealership?

Sniper