it looks like my radiator is leaking but i'm not sure. I have a 1990 buick lesabre. I just had the mechanic replace the water pump and cap (because cap didn't have seal). But i noticed today the fluid was still leaking. it leaks on the bottom right side (where the hose meets the radiator). but i also notice that there's remnants of fluid from the top where the cap is. but i think that was from before he replaced the cap.
Anyway, I don't know what to say to him when I bring it to him tomorrow. the "service engine soon" light comes on when i'm going over 60 on the interstate. help!! I already paid $464. I can't afford more. He said the radiator looked good though when i picked up the car yesterday. Help!!!!
2007-07-11 13:05:42 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
You paid $464 to replace a water pump? That's about a $20 part and $70 labor.
When someone steals your money and is incompetent to boot, it's usually a good idea not to go back to them.
If that's the original radiator, it's ancient. 10 years is a good lifespan for one of those, and 17 is Methusala class. It's probably corroded and leaking. You need to go to an honest radiator shop and let them have a look. A new radiator would only cost about $100 and $150 or so for labor.
2007-07-11 14:37:33 · answer #1 · answered by Nomadd 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First, your mechanic should be good enough to check this issue for free and to remedy anything he may have had to disturb when replacing your pump and cap.
Second, the "service engine soon" lamp could be a coincidence. It would come on at other times too... not just at 60 MPH... for instance in city traffic.
Third, since he changed the pump and really had to dig, did he also change the thermostat?
Fourth, did he evacuate the system as well? Did he make sure to tighten the drain valve and all the connections?
If he did all of these, then if you do have a radiator leak in the core (the finned area) you can use stop-leak, or if it is obvious (like at the side of the radiator or at the pipe for the hose, he should be able to braze it.
Finally, if he can't find it... for now carry a gallon of premixed fluid in your trunk. Check it daily at the fill tank and if it is severely low, take it in.
2007-07-11 13:21:54 · answer #2 · answered by ClueFone 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
After, intently look on the hose, and verify that it is not the hose that's leaking, then proceed to the sticking out (pipelike) stub from the radiator. That stub is 'soldered' to the radiator housing. With age, or a stable slam, very minor cracks can take place. you are able to re-solder utilising a 'propane torch(after lowering the point of the coolant), or use J/B weld compound. look on the stub, to be sure if it corroding via, or have a coarse outer floor, which stop the clamped hose from totally seal-over. counting on the age of the vehicle, and time yet ' to maintain working', it particularly is priceless to to characteristic a "radiator sealer compound" which will end small leaks,,,,,,its pennies vs greenbacks for a clean rad.
2016-12-10 09:23:50 · answer #3 · answered by snetsinger 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ask the mechanic to pressure test the cooling system. He will attach a pump and pump it up to the recommended pressure and then watch it to see if it holds pressure. It's also eay to spot a leak doing this.
2007-07-11 19:09:51 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just take it back to him and say you notice a little puddle under your car and it was antifreeze. It maight be a new problem and it might of been something he did. Your check engine light is signs of a egr valve .
2007-07-11 13:48:00 · answer #5 · answered by miiiikeee 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is likely he left the lower rad hose clamp loose. He should fix it free. Good Luck and GOD Bless
2007-07-11 13:13:19 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
With your paid bill in hand tell him it isn't fixed. If he accepted money for a repair it's his baby! You can take him to court. Do not let him keep your receipt.
2007-07-11 13:42:37 · answer #7 · answered by Wisdom 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋