The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.
When the head gasket begins to fail, the engine may have no symptoms at all. They only begin to occur when the leak has reached an engine oil passage, engine coolant passage or the engine cylinder.
When that happens, the engine may be very difficult to start, and run roughly when idling. There may be oil or coolant leaking, and the engine may begin to overheat, or at least run hot. At this point, there may be coolant in the engine oil pan — this will look creamy and lighter in color than the oil. Also, the radiator or engine coolant reservoir may have a gurgling sound, the presence engine oil, or smell of combustion. And the check engine light will come on.
The coolant being burned in the engine will produce white exhaust that smells sweet, like engine coolant. When the head gasket fails completely, the engine will overheat within minutes of starting, will stall and then won't restart.
A failing heater core may cause the car's interior to smell like engine coolant. The smell will become worse when the heater is turned on. The engine may also begin to run hotter until the vehicle is repaired.
The worst-case scenario is the engine overheating, which can cause extensive engine damage.
If the heater core is clogged, the air that blows when the heater is turned on will not be very hot.
Problems with the intake manifold gasket can create the following symptoms:
» LEARN MORE: Intake manifold gasket symptoms
A failing radiator can cause the engine to run hot or overheat. Most radiators are made of metal and plastic. The plastic parts can become brittle and crack over time, causing a leak of coolant (typically green or pink in color). All manufacturers have a recommended service interval for coolant renewal. As the coolant ages, the additives breakdown and being to form solid deposits. These deposits will build up in the passages of the cooling system and will eventually clog components, including the radiator. A leaking or clogged radiator must be replaced. Some automatic transmission cars will also have a transmission cooler integrated into the radiator. Lines going to and from the transmission circulate transmission fluid to help cool the transmission in heavy duty applications such as towing or off-roading. If this integrated cooler fails, it can allow transmission fluid and coolant to mix. This will causing shifting issues in addition to overheating.
A coolant leak may be noted from the hoses. Coolant hoses can be damaged by oil leaks, or age. This will lead to swelling or cracking, it is suggested to replace the hoses before they begin leaking to avoid potential overheating.
The bad thermostat can cause two different sets of problems, depending on whether it's stuck open or stuck closed.
A thermostat that is stuck open can cause the engine to run colder than normal and turn on the check engine light. It may also cause poor fuel mileage and the heater to blow cool air.
A thermostat that is stuck closed will cause the vehicle to overheat. If a new thermostat doesn't resolve engine temperature problems, the cooling system needs to be checked for other issues.
» LEARN MORE: Signs of a bad thermostat, and how to fix it
The two most common signs of a bad pump are leaks and noises.
Leaking water pumps can result in damage to the drive and timing belts, and cause the engine to overheat. A failed water pump can be caused by other problems in the cooling system, such as a bad thermostat, radiator or head gasket.
When troubleshooting coolant leaks in your INFINITI I35, begin by visually inspecting the vehicle for any obvious signs of leakage, such as puddles or stains beneath the engine. Check the coolant reservoir for low levels, as this can indicate a leak. If you notice a sweet smell inside the cabin, it may suggest coolant is leaking into the interior. Next, examine the hose connections for looseness, as this is a common culprit for leaks. If the hoses appear secure, inspect the radiator for cracks or damage, and consider the water pump, which can also fail and lead to leaks. If you suspect a more serious issue, such as a failing head gasket, be aware that symptoms may not be immediately apparent, but can escalate quickly. Always remember to flush and refill the coolant properly, following the specific guidelines for your model, to maintain optimal engine performance. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve coolant leaks, ensuring your INFINITI I35 runs smoothly.
When dealing with coolant leaks in your INFINITI I35, it's essential to understand the common problems that may arise within the cooling system. One frequent issue is the deterioration of hoses, which can develop cracks or become brittle over time, leading to leaks. Additionally, the radiator itself may corrode or sustain damage from road debris, resulting in coolant escaping. The water pump is another critical component that can fail, often due to wear and tear or a faulty seal, causing coolant to leak into the engine bay. Furthermore, the head gasket can also be a source of leaks, particularly if the engine has overheated in the past, which can lead to significant coolant loss and engine damage if not addressed promptly. By being aware of these common failure modes, you can better focus your inspection efforts and take the necessary steps to resolve any coolant leak issues effectively.
Addressing a coolant leak in your INFINITI I35 is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a crucial step in safeguarding your vehicle's performance and longevity. Ignoring a coolant leak can lead to severe overheating, which may cause irreversible engine damage and costly repairs. The water pump, a vital component of your cooling system, can suffer catastrophic failure if coolant leaks from its weep holes, potentially contaminating the engine oil and leading to engine failure. Regularly monitoring your coolant levels is essential; a consistent drop in coolant, even after topping off, is a clear indicator of a leak that requires immediate attention. Furthermore, if the water pump seal fails, coolant can flow back into the engine block, exacerbating the problem and leading to more significant issues. Therefore, addressing a coolant leak promptly is essential not only for maintaining your INFINITI I35's reliability but also for preventing extensive damage and ensuring your safety on the road.
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