2000 S40 coolant leak and white smoke

aw7328 · Post by **aw7328** » 28 Dec 2007, 10:22

I was waiting in line approximately 10-15 minutes at the bank drive through, when the temperature gauge started to rise indicating overheating. As I was only about 2 miles from home, I finished and drove home without stopping. When I got home, white smoke was coming out of the front and coolant was leaking.
This morning I took the S40 to a local non-Volvo service station. The guy tells me he does not have the proper tools to do a pressure check and diagnose where the leak is coming from. He says it could be the radiator, a hose, or even the storage tank has cracked.
Any suggestions? I would rather not have to go to the dealer, but I also understand it may be the best option. Thanks for all the help!!!

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 28 Dec 2007, 13:33

See if you can find a good euro or Volvo independent mechanic. If you would tell us where you are, maybe we can help. If you can't, I would bite the bullet and take it to the dealer. Worst case is a leak within the radiator that has mixed your coolant with engine oil and there's coolant in your engine- meaning, a new head gasket. Let's hope not...you said white smoke- if it's from your exhaust, along with missing coolant, that spells major trouble.

aw7328 · Post by **aw7328** » 29 Dec 2007, 06:48

Thanks for the reply. I am in the Detroit, Michigan area, specifically in Troy. Anyone know of any good places around here. I was told of a place in Waterford. "Munk's" is the name. The only thing is, I am afraid to drive much further than 10 miles or so in fear of doing more damage from overheating. The Volvo dealer is only about 10 minutes from my house. Thanks for the replies.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 29 Dec 2007, 07:39

I would not drive it at all until you know what's going on. Have it towed.
I don't know of anyone in Michigan who can work on your car besides the dealer. Don't know about Munk's but if he's reputable, he's got to be less than a dealer.

aw7328 · Post by **aw7328** » 06 Jan 2008, 08:30

I had the S40 towed to Munk's Motors in Waterford, MI where they diagnosed the problem. A rubber hose, 1.5" approximately in diameter, connecting to the top of the radiator was faulty and needed replacing. Two days later (due to the New Year holiday) I had my car back running in top shape once again! Thanks for the suggestions, you were a big help.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 06 Jan 2008, 08:49

Glad to hear it wasn't a head gasket....better safe than sorry!