I recently went to look at a 2003 Beetle TDI to purchase. While doing my pre-drive inspection I checked the coolant overflow. I looked inside and noticed that the coolant was an orange/red with white bubbles on top. The coolant did not smell like fuel. However, at the neck of the coolant filler I found a goo the consistency of gelatin (before it dissolves in water), and mixed with it was what looked like small metal shavings.
Any ideas on what might be wrong?
2007-09-06 16:54:26 · 4 answers · asked by fireplug805 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
If the car has an automatic transmission, there might be a leak in the transmission fluid cooler (which is inside the rediator in most cars) the transmission fluid gets in the engine coolant, and often engine coolant gets in the transmission fluid as well. Neither is good. The color might also be from rust, but I think, even if that was the original coolant from when the car was made, I don't think there would be that much rust yet.
2007-09-06 17:07:28 · answer #1 · answered by Flying Dragon 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If the coolant has not been replaced at the specified intervals, a sludge/slush may form within the cooling system. While the water heats up during operation, such scum may rise up to the top. It tries to find its way out and invariably ends up in the reservoir. The mess you have seen could be the residue from the anti-freeze component coupled with the additives found in modern day engine coolants. The metal shavings could be from the water pump, which I would tend to classify as 'filings'. The colour of the coolant should not put you off, since coolants come in different colours and hues.
2007-09-07 03:29:06 · answer #2 · answered by al_sheda 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The previous owner or owners may never have changed any of the fluids including the engine coolant. They would be called "lemon makers" and when you buy the car, you'll be a "lemon eater" meaning you'll end up paying for all the expensive repairs that end up from a total lack of maintenance on the car. Just think how bad things might have looked just before they did the last minute fluid change so they could sell the car!
2007-09-07 00:00:15 · answer #3 · answered by bobweb 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
orangeish red coolant is different from the green coolant it is longer life used in newer cars
2007-09-07 00:11:24 · answer #4 · answered by goat 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋