1st Gen R53 Cooper S Trying to diagnose a problem

Discussion in '1st Generation: 2002–06 R50, R53 & 2004–08 R52' started by AliceCooper, Nov 16, 2011.

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  1. AliceCooper

    AliceCooper Club Coordinator

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    #1 AliceCooper, Nov 16, 2011
    2004 MCS I know the stock expansion tanks are prone to leaking and I am wondering if that is why mine keeps going dry every other day. I am not overheating but scanguage shows a little spike when stopped and then goes back to about 197 when I am moving. No strange noises. I do get a smell like coolant on a header. If its not expansion tank, that I am switching this weekend what would be the next good thing to check ? leaking thermostat maybe ? or waterpump leak ? would rather deal with thermostat.
     
  2. mini_racer

    mini_racer Well-Known Member

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    #2 mini_racer, Nov 16, 2011
    We will all replace the expansion tank sooner or later, at ~$30 just go ahead and do it.

    The thermostat housing O-ring is also known to fail. I think you can buy a kit with the O-ring and thermostat, might as well replace it too. Also, some have had leaks from cracks in the housing itself, as it is a composite material.

    This is all pretty easy DIY stuff, just take your time.

    Good luck with the fix.
     
  3. quikmni

    quikmni Moderator

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    #3 quikmni, Nov 17, 2011
    Hopefully it is just the coolant tank but if not:

    Look for puddled coolant or white residue (dried coolant) near the thermostat housing to tell if it is leaking. Going dry every other dry is probably a bigger leak than the theromstat housing.

    Use a flashlight to look around the engine compartment for white residue indicating dried coolant and try to trace up to initial leaking spot.
     

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