Leakage

2004 DODGE INTREPID
178,000 MILES • 2.7L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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MELONYLYNN
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  • 2 POSTS
Whenever I drive my car somewhere, (usually forty miles or more a day), the water (or antifreeze) disappears and my motor gets hot. I've been having to put at least two gallons of water in every time I drive it somewhere. I can't seem to figure out what is going on. I probably shouldn't be driving it, but it's the only transportation I have. Any ideas on what it could be? Thanks.
Jun 3, 2022 at 9:39 AM
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SQM
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
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Hello,

It sounds like there is a leak somewhere in the cooling system.
It could leak from any number of spots, like any of the hoses, water pump, radiator, etc.

Does it leak anywhere on the ground, when parked overnight?

Are you observing any smoke coming out of the tail pipe?

Take a look at this guide, it provides helpful information of where to look for coolant leaks.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-is-leaking-coolant

Let me know if you are able to locate the leak or if you have any questions.
Thank you.
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Jun 3, 2022 at 2:54 PM
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MELONYLYNN
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It does not leak onto the ground and yes, I do have smoke at times coming out of the tailpipe. I've had to park my car now as it will not hold water at all.
Jun 11, 2022 at 8:35 PM
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SQM
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
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Well, the first step would be to find the leak. Sometimes this will require accessing under the vehicle to observe where it is leaking from.
Also, if you are getting white smoke out of the tailpipe, which could be a sign on a blown head gasket.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/white-smoke-or-steam-coming-from-the-exhaust-pipe
Jun 11, 2022 at 10:05 PM