car problem, low coolant, potentially leakage?

Question

I drive a 2002 buick century, the low coolant light is on now.

I am planning on going to an auto repair garage to get it checked, the computer system in my car is gone (classic buick problem), I am kind hoping its the sensor malfunctioning.

anyway, could someone tell me what kind of potential spending I am looking at here?

for example, how much would it cost to get it inspected;  how much would it cost if it is leaking or some parts need to get replaced?

thank you!!

? · Accepted Answer

Did you check to see if you actually have coolant. If there is coolant then you might have a sensor issue. If there is no coolant then, there might not be a sensor issue. Check the hoses to too. I will like to add that it is normal for you coolant to run low after several hundred miles in fact several thousand miles. I you are not adding coolant every minute then add coolant and see how long it takes to get empty again. If you refill it within a week or month then there might be a leak.

This will save you the trip to the mechanic. But if you still go, depending on the mechanic or technician they will charge you anywhere from 50 - 100 dollars just to look at it. Please take my advice and check and do what I advise. So mechanics are so dishonest and will see a simple problem as low coolant and will tell you that you need to replace this and that and land you a 300-400 dollar bill. And all they do is just refill your radiator.

Busitnjustin41 · Answer

Your computer system is gone?  That is not a classic buick problem and whoever told you that should not be allowed to look at or repair your car in the future.  The coolant could be leaking from anywhere, it is generally about. 30 bucks to have it pressure tested to pinpoint the leak, the cost of repair could be anywhere from a few dollars for a hose clamp or well over 1000 for head gasket or intake leak.  Good luck!

Andy · Answer

Does the coolant leak onto the floor or go into the engine. If it goes onto the floor it may be as simple as a hose split or lose clamp, if it goes into the engine it could be head gasket, cylinder head or other expensive fault. Contact your local college that does auto courses they may look at your car as a training project free/cheap.

jamzm · Answer

Get under there and find out where it's leaking from.  Could be anything from a hose to a water pump to a head gasket.  You could do a hose yourself.  The water pump or head gasket could cost hundreds.

-Rod- · Answer

question #1
Can you see coolant in the radiator when you remove the cap (when system is cold of course)?
If the fluid is low, do you see fluid on the ground where the vehicle was parked?
Does the vehicle smoke excessively when running? (not steam in the cold air)
Overheat?
As far as cost estimates, how long is a piece of string?

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car problem, low coolant, potentially leakage?

5 Answers