Coolant leaking and engine running hot?

Tiny
CHRISTOPHER BERGMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 2005 CHEVROLET MALIBU
  • 3.5L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 191,997 MILES
Need to locate freeze plug under front passenger side to repair. Need sizes and diagram and tools needed to do so.
Saturday, January 24th, 2026 AT 3:08 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,656 POSTS
This can be a tough job, make sure you drain the cooling system first. This video can help you remove and install the freeze plug.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Qf7LT3LAX8

GM lists an engine block core plug at 40 mm (OEM size listing).

Tools you’ll want (and what they’re for)

MANDATORY

Cooling system pressure tester (to locate leak)
1. Drain pan + funnel
2. Jack + jack stands / wheel chocks
3. Safety glasses

Removal / install

1. Socket set + extensions + wobble (tight access)
2. Hammer
3. Punch / chisel (to rotate the old plug)
4. Vise-grips or pliers (to pull the rotated plug)
5. Freeze plug driver set or a socket that matches the plug OD (to drive it in square)

Prep / seal

1. Emery cloth / Scotch-Brite (clean bore)
2. Brake cleaner (final wipe)

Sealant: a thin coat of Permatex #2 or similar non-hardening sealer on the plug OD (common practice)

Then reassemble and refill with coolant. If you run into an issues please upload a short video or image so I can help walk you through the repairs, Ken
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Saturday, January 24th, 2026 AT 11:12 AM
Tiny
CHRISTOPHER BERGMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
And of course money is an issue, please give me a ballpark fix my car figure. Again, thank you Ken L.
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Saturday, January 24th, 2026 AT 12:40 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,656 POSTS
Hello Christopher,

Most shops will charge between 2 and 4 hours + parts depending on what they need to do to get at the freeze plug that is leaking, if you upload an image of the leaking freeze plug I can get closer.
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Sunday, January 25th, 2026 AT 8:30 AM

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