2002 Nissan Altima Coolant Reservoir - startup problem

MSGTORAM

MEMBER
2002 NISSAN ALTIMA
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
86,000 MILES

Hi,
I am having Nissan altima 2002, I fill coolant reservoir every 3 or 4 days. Didn't notice any leakage. Also I am having intermittent startup issue (regardles of cold/warm). I changed spark plugs, Coil recently to the car. After changing the coil, the frequency of the problem came down.

On hard start I notice some white smoke coming out but it disappears in minutes.

Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

1 Reply

AK_ALTIMA05

MEMBER
6 POSTS

I have had the same symptoms typically with my 2005 Altima.

Check the coolant level inside the radiator itself (on a cold engine only!) And not only the reservoir

Most probabaly what you are describing is an internal leakage, because of a blown head gasket most of the time, unfortunately.

White smoke is a typical symptom. Another one: check the bottom of the oil filling cap, if some whiteness found then this is a clear sign of oil/water contamination in your engine.

You may also remove the radiators cap (when the engine is cold) and start the engine. Wait for 5 mins. If you see bubbles in the coolant then this is another sign of an internal leak. Tread on the gas pedal, if the coolant comes out then this is another sign too.

Good luck!