Cooling System

BOB WESCOTT

MEMBER
1999 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT
4 CYL
AUTOMATIC
85,000 MILES

Dealer says there is a leak in the cooling system, charge will be at least $400.00. Right now $400 is big money for me. If I added coolant can I keep things going for another month? (I don't even know if it needs coolant). I am not mechanical or car savvy, however, the car has been dealer serviced regularly, runs well and is in good condition.
Should I get a second opinion at another dealer?
Temperatures here low 30's-50's
Many thanks,
Bob

3 Replies

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

If you take the chance and drive the car, you might end up with more than $400 worth of trouble. I recommend looking into having another opinion as well as considering a dealer alternative, the dealer is almost always going to be more expensive for some repairs.
Does this advice seem reasonable to you?

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Sunday, January 23rd, 2011 AT 6:10 PM

BOB WESCOTT

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Yes, your answer does seem reasonable. If I go to an "alternative" how do you suggest I approach them? I would not want to reveal what I have all ready been told, but would want them to find the problem, if it exists. Would you go to a car generalist or a specialist in the cooling system?
Thanks.

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Sunday, January 23rd, 2011 AT 7:18 PM

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

That is a tough distinction, the two are not exclusive and the specialist in cooling systems alone could certainly be as qualified as the VW only guy, I would let your fingers do the walking. Make some calls, maybe the answer will be there.

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Sunday, January 23rd, 2011 AT 7:47 PM