I started noticing my coolant level going to low in the reservoir. I have a few drops on the floor near or around the front of the car by the belts/water pump.

I took the car in and the mechanic, within 5 mins of opening the hood said its the water pump. I asked if he was going to do a pressure test and he said NO. He said that it couldnt be anything else and that it would cost me $480 for labor.

So I drove to an old shop I used to take my MR2 to. The guy isnt there anymore but I told them the story. He asked if they did a pressure test I said no. He did a pressure test and the water pump was he said was FINE. He wanted to wait for the owner/head mechanic to come and they would do a thorough search but I waited for about 40 mins and left.

Is there anywhere else it could be leaking from? How many coolant are down there? It leaks like 2-3 drops every morning when I move my car and I'm having to refill the reservoir a 1 cup of coolant every 2-3 weeks.

 

Did you do a visual check of all your hoses? I was doing the exact same and finally found a hose clamp that could have been tighter.

 

Yeah, I'd check the clamps and hoses. Had something a similar leak on my bike and it turned out to be a loose clamp right at the water pump.

 

It could either be the hoses or maybe a small crack in the reservoir or radiator.

 

It's your waterpump, check the small weep hole at the bottom of the pump,
it's coming from there! Have the same problem right now with my I30 that I had with my Maxima.

That's why the 1st guy knew what it was right away, common problem...

 

It was the CAP. It was leaking on top of the radiator and falling to once side because my carport has a slant to the passenger side. I hate taking my car to mechanics. Didnt even test anything and wanted to charge me in labor $480 for water pump and $250 for a radiator. I've been screwed before so I know when its B.S. Thanks for the help.

 

^sweet. I had the same issue on my 240.

 

alright I'm glad you learned how to screw...

 

I have a 99 i30. Thinking it’s the same problem, but would the coolant get into the oil being that it is in the timing cover? I’ve traced where it trickles down from, behind the alternator and ac compressor. That was my guess as well was the water pump. Guess I just don’t want to believe it because I don’t want to have to tear into it and do the work lol.