Nissan Pathfinder leaks a lot of coolant when heater is running

JOSHUAMG

MEMBER
1996 NISSAN PATHFINDER
166,000 MILES

I had the radiator replaced about a month ago as it had a small crack along the dome and was leaking a bit of coolant. A week later the coolant started rapidly leaking from the thermostat housing to the point where the radiator would be dry in about 3 minutes. Had that repaired at the smae place the radiator replacement was done. Now about 4 weeks later, a lot of coolant leaks out when the heater running. Does this sort of thing happen or is this the result of inferior workmanship?

Tuesday, September 13th, 2011 AT 3:40 AM

2 Replies

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

Not uncommon, as you repair one leak and the system pressure improves, you can set off a new leak at the next weakest point, we see it a lot.

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Tuesday, September 13th, 2011 AT 3:43 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

It is common. The pressure increases when the leak is fixed, so if there is another weak poing, it will leak. Now it sounds like it may be related to the heater core. Make sure the coolant isn't getting on the passanger side carpet.

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Tuesday, September 13th, 2011 AT 3:45 AM