AboutRoland Finston Expertise I take questions about domestic Chrysler-product front wheel drive cars and minivans for the years 1982-2000 based upon my experience and shop manuals. I don't have detailed information (e.g. manuals) nor expertise for Jeeps, trucks, SUV's, import vehicles, or for years more recent than 2000 (except Sebring/Stratus I have '03).
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Experience I have been a do-it-yourself auto hobbyist for 5 decades, and most recently have been concentrating on the various Chrysler Corporation domestic front wheel drive cars and vans. I have shop manuals and wiring diagrams for many models for the years '83-'00, as well as rear wheel drive cars for the early 80's. I enjoy analyzing problems that other Chrysler enthusiasts are having and sharing my information.
Organizations belong to Group co-moderator of the Yahoo autos group The Chrysler LeBaron Club
Expert: Roland Finston Date: 7/16/2008 Subject: Coolant loss without apparent leak
Question I have a '97 Chrysler Sebring that I just bought and I am losing anti-freeze. There is no visable leak and fluid on the ground. I went to a radiator shop today and it was pressure tested. No leak on the ground, but when I got home the level was a little down again. I have used two gallons this past week. Help!
Answer Hi Robert,
Two possibilities to check: See if the carpet under the dash on the passenger side is wet, and does it smell like antifreeze. That would be a sign of a heater core leak.
Watch the exhaust pipe outlet when you start the car after it has cooled down and sat such as overnight. See if there is a prolonged cloud of white smoke, and allow a little of the smoke to condense on your hand. If it smells of anti-freeze that would be a sign of an internal engine leak due usually to a head gasket break or if your lucky loose head bolts that might be tightened to stop a leak between the gasket and two metal surfaces it interfaces.
Did the radiator shop put an exhaust gas detector on the radiator filler when they tested it for pressure? That would be another way to detect an internal engine leak. Also, any signs of foamy residue in you engine oil would be a sign of the same.
Let me know if you locate any of these signs.
Roland
