2005 Jaguar X-Type leak under hood

Tiny
TALFRED
  • MEMBER
  • 2005 JAGUAR X-TYPE
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 44,000 MILES
While checking my oil today, I noticed what looked like antifreeze leaking on other parts under the hood but I could not locate the source. I'm assuming it's a loose or cracked hose. Other than this, what else should I ask my mechanic to check? There is no noticable antifreeze underneath my car on the ground.
Friday, July 3rd, 2009 AT 8:01 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
BUDDYCRAIGG
  • MECHANIC
  • 2,262 POSTS
If you are going to be taking your car to a shop for the repair, may I suggest a different approach.

Instead of saying, "I have an antifreeze leak that I want you to fix."

say, "I think I have a leak."
Open your hood and point to places that are wet.

Let them figure it out.
That's our job.
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Friday, July 3rd, 2009 AT 8:12 PM
Tiny
TALFRED
  • MEMBER
  • 8 POSTS
. But this is my first time using this mechanic and I dont want to be taken to the cleaners for something as simple as a cracked hose. I was hoping to find out from you what were the most obvious causes of this type of leak.
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Friday, July 3rd, 2009 AT 8:19 PM
Tiny
BUDDYCRAIGG
  • MECHANIC
  • 2,262 POSTS
Yes, finding a shop that you trust is always a difficult process. Was this person recommended to you?

There are countless places for a leak.

It will require a visual inspection. Depending on the results, and if it is determined that it is coolant. If the source of the leak is not apparent, then the coolant system may have to be pressure tested.

If the leak is really slow, they could possibly have to add a chemical to the coolant that reacts with UV light.
They may send you home in the car and have you come back at a later date to recheck for the leak with the UV light.

You can always ask for an estimate and then take the car somewhere else for a second opinion.
If the second shop suggest the same repair, then you can feel safe that the first guy wasn't trying to reach into your pockets.
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Friday, July 3rd, 2009 AT 8:31 PM
Tiny
TALFRED
  • MEMBER
  • 8 POSTS
Thanks Buddy,

Just from further observation, it looks like the reservoir nipple that connects to the small hose has broken off. My coolant was below the minimum requirement so I added some water to it as the manuel suggested. I would have to drive at least 10 to 12 miles from home to the dealership. Hopefully that will not cost too much to replace. I do have an extended warranty but it doesn't cover belts and hoses. I guess my argument will be that it's not the hose but the part that the hose connects too. All this on the 4th of july weekend. Again, thanks for your help.
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Saturday, July 4th, 2009 AT 11:05 AM

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