eaglebtc
758
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Video: 2004 Beetle 1.8T. Slow coolant drip when warm. No drip when cold. Leaking at front driver's side. Small pool of coolant seen shimmering between battery tray and air box, probably on top of trans mount or bell housing. What's the most likely culprit,
This is a 2004 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T with 175,000 miles that has a slow coolant drip. This started a couple of days ago. The dripping only occurs when the car is warm, or just parked after driving. Once cold, the dripping stops. This fluid has the same consistency as fresh coolant from the bottle, a reddish pink antifreeze with ethylene glycol that gives it a slightly "oily" feel in the fingers. The fluid that was on my garage floor last night has mostly evaporated. What part of the coolant system is located directly under the air filter housing? What part(s) will I need to consider buying? Is this a DIY repair, or should I take it to a shop? Will I need any special VW tools? I have a wide range of hand tools for automotive repair, including Torx bits from size T-10 to T-55.
ilovebigmutts
It's 20yrs old.
AlackofPotassiumcankill
VR6 + 2.5L Jetta owner here - the thermostat itself is probably worth checking out-it can develop hairline cracks and seep more when warmed up. I've replaced both thermostat housing and the radiator in the VR6.
pocushocus
Coolant flange on the back of head is a common culprit. In Audi configuration it's held on by a double bolt and you have to take off the nuts for the other lines first then the second part for the flange. I'm sure it's similar on the sideways setup
slidewhistlesymphony
Water pump would be my first guess.
PaperStSoapCompany
Flex tape, it'll be fine.
usernameistolkien
Sometimes it’s easier to just top it off once a week. And more economical.
TheUglyGuy
It's a fucking VW. It's going to do this kind of shit. Open the wallet, cause it's gonna take some bucks. Sauce - I drive a 2001 Jetta.
LittleDragon
Source. Probably the car.
eaglebtc
checks out.
AWarningToOthers
eaglebtc
UnitConversionBot
175,000 miles ≈ 281600 kilometres
eaglebtc
good bot
JamesInTasmania
Get the service manual from an online manuals download site, see where the water pump/etc is on the engine, go from there.
eaglebtc
/a/tDU3nmf - that's the manual. Gotta dig in!
JamesInTasmania
Well you're onto it, then! Look at the engine overview diagram, see what's above/near the leak. Water pump can so what you describe, is it hot engine, or just warm engine? Hot engine is pressurised coolant system, so any rubber bit, any plastic bit could be the cause, warm engine could be the water pump shaft seal. What you find depends on if you DIY or take it to a specialist. Have fun!
TheyDontKnowAndYouCantTellEm
You need to get on Reddit and find a VW forum, or at least r/mechanicaladvice
eaglebtc
I uploaded the video here first because reddit's video hosting sucks, then posted to /r/volkswagen and /r/AskAMechanic. Thanks!
TheyDontKnowAndYouCantTellEm
You'll get good answers over there. Good luck.
ufoara
probably the plastic ends of the radiator or some other plastic coupler. Do not throw away any of the constant tension clamps and replace with worm gear clamps.
ufoara
can you lay eyes on the thermostat housing?
ufoara
https://youtu.be/DYVaIRX-y_s
ufoara
if none of those, hope it is not the waterpump housing.