Q: Car is burning coolant very quickly, no leaks in the system

asked by on May 25, 2016

Hello. I have an issue with my car burning coolant very fast. I had it pressure tested to see if there is a leak. There are no leaks. I had the coolant tank cap replaced as it was suggested to me by a mechanic. I'm still having the same issue. Do you have some advice? Thank you.

Pressure Test Radiator Cap $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

If you are loosing coolant and had it tested without any leaks identified then you may have a head gasket leaking or a heater core leaking.

Look at the exhaust to see if you see any white smoke indicating the head gasket has a leak. If you are getting low coolant with no leaks on the ground then a mechanic can pressure the system and determine where the leaking coolant is going. The system should hold pressure for as long as the tester is attached. Once the pressure leaks down then a diagnosis can be done.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What is shift lock release?
Most automatic transmissions come equipped with a solenoid designed to prevent the transmission from being moved out of park of the brake isn’t pressed. However, if the brake light switch malfunctions, the battery fails or the solenoid fails, you may...
What is the vehicle stability assist?
Your car has a stability assist system built into it (VSA). You might be more familiar with this as “electronic stability control,” but they both refer to the same thing. The VSA is a system designed to enhance stability and...
Car leaking gas and oil
Fluid and oil leaks unfortunately will only get worse over time. The main fluids that could be leaking from the rear could be a serious concern for the brake fluid or fuel. Either of these fluids leaking could be potentially...
98 Firebird's engine cranks without startup and has a code for pending crank position sensor
If you have no readings when you turn that key on, it could be an electrical short. When you hear that noise, check to see where the noise is coming from. Perhaps the ignition switch is broken and it shorted...
Tools to replace a radiator and fan
Hey there. You will need mostly basic hand tools - a ratchet, sockets, wrenches, pliers, screw drivers. The only problem you might run into is bleeding the cooling system (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/cooling-system-flush) of air after performing the replacement. Since this radiator does...
Brake changes on my 2007 Kia Picanto
You may not need brakes but should get them inspected to see if they are worn down or just noisy. If you are having to replaced the brakes every 4000km or six months, then you have issues with the calipers...
Will not shift past first gear at about 20 mph. What is causing this? 2002 Isuzu Rodeo Sport V6 3.2l
Hello - the lack of an upshift (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/car-won-t-shift-into-second-and-has-transmission-fluid-leaking-transmission-is-a-200r4-by-genesis-p) from 1st to 2nd could be dirty, burned fluid or clogged filter, or a failed Shift Solenoid "A". Low fluid level and low electrical system voltage can also make the transmission misbehave...
Got gas in my oil
If you are getting fuel into the oil then you either have a leaking injector or fuel pressure regulator. I recommend having fuel pressure checked and check the pressure regulator vacuum line to see if fuel is getting in it...
Car is shaking/skipping when foot is on brake
What you are describing sounds like a dirty or failing idle air control valve. The idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) monitors the air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected into the engine at low speeds...

Related articles

Is it Safe to Drive With an Exhaust Leak?
Your vehicle’s exhaust system keeps the car quiet and the exhaust fumes away from the cabin. Furthermore, the system helps...
How Long Does an Oil Pan Last?
The The oil that is contained in your engine is helps to lubricate all of the moving parts that your motor has. Making sure that the oil stays at the right levels should be one of the top concerns that...
How to Find and Repair a Brake Fluid Leak
The vast majority of passenger vehicles on the road today use hydraulic brake systems to operate their brakes. Most braking...