Coolant level @ 11k - 24'OB

[Debra14301]

I'm bringing my car in for an oil change. The coolant level is slightly below MIN.

What should I ask them to do to make sure there is not a leak/water pump failure?? I don't want them to just "top it off".

Thx!

UPDATE: They replaced the water pump!
The SA said they replaced with newer version and better process. He said he hadn't seen the issue on a BS with such low mileage -- probably bc I proactively checked it.

Thanks to this forum alerting me to this possibility! Trust me, I wouldn't otherwise be checking the coolant.

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[rootdoc]

Just top it off and monitor over the next few months.

 

[Veterans25BB]

Personally, before they dump the oil, I would ask them to look at the oil for signs of coolant in it.
I assume most quick change places drain the oil into a large drum. In order to evaluate your oil they will have to drain the oil into a pan/tub so that it can be visually analysed without other oil mixed in.
It is usually easy to see coolant in oil. It floats.

Just my opinion, others please comment.

 

[Me3]

Hi Debra, are you taking it to your dealer for a scheduled oil change? If so they will probably be doing an inspection of the car, tire rotation etc. if you are still under warranty.

let them know the coolant is slightly low and can they look into that.

Those 1.5l engines have had water pump/coolant issues and dealerships know that, they will probably check it on their own, but remind them anyway. It should be no charge under warranty.

An independent shop can also test for coolant leakage and do repairs if necessary, but will charge you for the service.

Keep in mind that the level in the reservoir will rise or fall depending on the engine temperature, so observe the level when the engine has been off for at least a few hours, and cool. It’s good to do this at least monthly as a regular maintenance item, same as any car.

 

[Debra14301]

Yes, it's at the dealer and is under warranty. I will mention it. I just hope they do a serious check and not just fill it.
Do you know what they should do? Is it a pressure test or something. I just want to use the right words, so that they think I know what I'm talking about. Lol.

 

[Me3]

Yes they should do a pressure test, with with or without dye, so they can see small leaks. The dye makes it easier to spot. Hoses can leak, water pumps fail, valves, radiators and heater cores and their hose connections

They should also check the old oil for signs of coolant to make sure a gasket isn’t leaking. That would be bad news for the engine.

Tell the service writer the coolant is low and to have the mechanic test the system for leaks, let him know that you know about the 1.5 liter engine water pump issues and could that be the problem? Make sure that it’s on your drop off paperwork that they will track down why it’s low, and when you pick up your car that the resolution is in writing, for your protection down the road.

Good on you for noticing the low coolant! I hope you check your oil and tire pressure every month and just do your own little inspections and follow the maintenance schedule in the manual.

 

[Debra14301]

Thank you so much!! This is exactly what I was looking for.

 

[Debra14301]

UPDATE: They replaced the water pump!
The SA said they replaced with newer version and better process. He said he hadn't seen the issue on a BS with such low mileage -- probably bc I proactively checked it.

Thanks to this forum alerting me to this possibility! Trust me, I wouldn't otherwise be checking the coolant.

 

[Me3]

That’s good news! Keep doing your regular inspections.

With warmer weather coming tire pressures will be rising, with adjustments needed at least monthly.

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