Q: My coolant ran out when the vehicle sat for 2 years and I am scared to start it.

asked by on November 22, 2016

My coolant ran out and i got it fixrd for 2000 dollars.. 3 month later it ran out and it cracked.. Im scared to start it.. What do i do??
My car has a manual transmission.

Radiator Replacement $353.55 - $1403.40 Get a Quote
Coolant is leaking Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there. Look in the engine compartment and locate the item that cracked to cause the coolant to leak out. If the radiator cracked, then replace the radiator, fill up the cooling system with water, and look for leaks. If there are no leaks, then drain out the water and fill up the cooling system with new coolant. If the engine cracked, then you will need to replace the engine, or engine parts. If you need further assistance with the leaking coolant when vehicle sat, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

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

Car won't go into reverse.
The manual transmission on these vehicles had a bad reverse gear design and was very prone to failure after getting worn. The transmission reverse gears do not engage enough in these transmissions and after the gear wears will not engage...
Brake pads making funny noise.
You may have more than one problem on your car. Your funny noise (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/car-is-making-a-noise-inspection) may be the axle or bearing. the vibration on acceleration is in the axle or bearings. The vibrate when braking may be in the brake rotors....
Air conditioning blows hot on one side and cold on the other side
There are two possible scenarios that could be causing your problem: As crazy as it sounds, I have had a low refrigerant charge in the a/c system as a cause of this, so it may just be that your a/c...
temp is getting high while on traffic when ac is on
I'm not sure of your exact model, but most modern cars have an electric fan that comes on solely for the AC. Using the AC adds a tremendous amount of heat to the engine compartment. The fan is there for...
Front end vibration, steering wheel shaking
Hi there. I would have the tires rotated to see if the problem changes. If it does, then was a tire that was warped or worn unevenly. The problem is that balancing can be off depending on where you get...
Car turns over but when in gear won't move 2009 Buick Enclave
Hello - check fluid level in the transmission, and for problem code, whether the Check Engine light is one or not. I suspect it will be. This sounds like a failure internal to the transmission, clutches (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/does-an-automatic-transmission-have-a-clutch), valve body or...
P0123 code 1999 Jeep Wrangler
Hi there - this may seem like a wild shot, but I wonder if your torque converter lock-up clutch is failing to release as you coast down, and the engine is having to fight it? I would think you would...
I hear a loud clicking noise on the drivers side by my tire rim when turning the steering wheel front tires vibrating as well.
A clicking noise on turning is very characteristic of a failed outboard CV axle joint. Sometimes, in such a circumstance, you can see that the rubber outboard boot is actually torn and leaking grease. If you see that (look behind...
car shakes when AC is on,or when I get to red light it will start shaking even if the AC is not on. Its a Acura tsx 2006 159mi
Assuming there is no serious mechanical problem, such as uneven cylinder compression, you have either an engine management fault, that is a deficiency in the ignition, fuel or air induction systems, or possibly faulty motor mounts. To check for engine-mount...

Related articles

What Causes Hoses to Leak?
While While the largest part of your engine is mechanical, hydraulics plays a significant role. You’ll find fluids at work in a number of different areas. Your car's fluids include: Engine oil Transmission fluid Coolant Power steering fluid Brake fluid...
How to Repair a Leaking Car Radiator
The radiator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-buy-a-good-quality-radiator) is the start of your car’s cooling system. Coolant from the engine travels through tubes in the radiator. These tubes (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-does-a-radiator-hose-last)...
How to Check the 5 Essential Fluids in Your Car
Checking your oil and adding engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid are essential for maintaining your car.