2003 XC70 Small coolant leak

Post by **GBS** » 09 Apr 2015, 08:35

Hey all,

So after doing my front cam seals, timing belt, water pump and so on I've now put about 50 miles on out xc70. I've noticed there is a small drops of coolant coming from the car, initially I suspected the pump since I replaced it but it seems to be coming from a strange place, the small plastic join on passenger side right behind the fog light so way forward of the pump. It's an impossible area to get a good look at without removing stuff but anyone have any tips where to start?

When I drained radiator I remember fluid dripping from that side as well as the normal drain hole but I figured that was because the car was on stands and tilted backwards so it got into the plastic bumper... I was hoping it was just a pooled up area in the bumper but after 50 miles there is still drops hanging from the plastic. I've had the bumper off before and I think I'll start there but wanted to get an opinion if I should just drive a bit more, maybe rinse out before I start investigating.

Cheers!

Post by **abscate** » 09 Apr 2015, 10:05

It could be a small leak in the radiator or hose which is making its way into the plastic tray before coming out on the pass side. Keep a close eye on the reservoir to gauge the loss rate...both to quantify and to see if it changes

Post by **GBS** » 09 Apr 2015, 14:20

That's what I'm thinking too, I might just take the bumper off on that side this weekend and look behind there, should be good view of what might be going on from the front.
thanks!

noelus · Post by **noelus** » 10 Apr 2015, 08:29

Both of these seem like good ideas. Do you have a splash guard? If so, when you take it off and lift the car up, can you see more wetness? I'm also thinking if the leak is super slow, it may be your petcock??

Post by **regent** » 10 Apr 2015, 10:09

I think you can shove a small inspection mirror in there and verify where the source is before taking the whole car apart

If it is the petcock, DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN - the plastic is very brittle. You may be able to take the petcock out and just clean the seat to stop the leak or replace the petcock (the new one comes with the o-ring for about $3.50). Tighten with a S13 mm socket by hand ONLY

Post by **GBS** » 10 Apr 2015, 10:54

I don't think its the petcock as its dry on that side. There was just one drop yesterday so I'm writing it up to coolant left over in bumper from splash when draining. I have a spare for when my petcock breaks off, probably should just put that on there and eliminate that fear as it does no good in my parts bin... live and learn right. Still no oil or fluids from under the timing belt cover so that's good news too.