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2001 Mazda Millenia Repair Question


Topics covered: Coolant, Engine, Pressure test.
Mileage: 11,600 miles.

Asked on September 6, 2012

Did I do something wrong? Which coolant cap is which? HELP!!!

I have a mazda millenia '01: the engine ran hot the other day so after letting it cool i checked the fluids. Only problem, though major, was that my coolant reservoir was empty. I also opened the 2nd coolant cap by the engine that according to the manual is designed for refilling and flushing the coolant system: it was dry as well. SO I added antifreeze to the reservoir full line and added some to the other spot as well. I ran the car with the flush cap off for a minute or so to get the air out. I put a brown paper bag under the engine to check for leaks. A day and a half later: no leaks, reservoir is full, and the flush pipe appears overflowing. What do i do?! Also I have heard that the 2 coolant caps appear identical but if placed on the wrong spot that that could lead to all my coolant escaping. Is that true? IF so which cap is which?
Avatar Asked by turtle87

Answer

Replied on September 6, 2012

i would be more concerned as to why is loosing the fluid. the caps are different but with different pressures.

have the system checked before you do engine damage

Roy

Tiny Answered by ASEMaster6371 (expert)
24,836 answers provided
Replied on September 6, 2012

I am concerned. I plan on taking it in to get checked, I am just concerned that I overfilled or did something wrong and shouldn't drive it?

Tiny Response from turtle87
1 question asked
Replied on September 7, 2012

no, you did not do anything wrong. get it checked asap.

Roy

Tiny Answered by ASEMaster6371 (expert)
24,836 answers provided

Replied on September 7, 2012

There is a leak somewhere causing the reservoir and radiator to be dry. The leak seems to be minimal which is why you woun't be able to see any.

You need to check the system for leaks which requires a pressure test and hope that the overheating did not do any major damages.

Tiny Answered by KHLow2008 (expert)
39,869 answers provided
Replied on September 7, 2012

Thanks for all the advice. I took it to a shop today, they did the pressure test and found a small crack near my fans where the radiator fluid seems to be leaking a small amount from (which is why I never saw signs of a leak), so i'll be keeping a much closer eye on that from now on. There didn't appear to be any damage. Thanks again.

Tiny Response from turtle87
1 question asked
Replied on September 7, 2012

You're welcome.

Tiny Answered by KHLow2008 (expert)
39,869 answers provided