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 dealing with coolant leaks in your Mitsubishi Galant, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by ensuring the engine is cool, as this will allow you to safely inspect the radiator and surrounding components for visible signs of leakage. Look for damaged hoses, which are common culprits, and check the water pump for any signs of wear or failure. Identifying the type of fluid leaking is crucial; coolant typically has a sweet smell and comes in various colors like orange, green, or pink. If you spot a leak, consider attempting some DIY fixes first, such as tightening hose clamps or applying a sealant to minor leaks. For more significant issues, like a leaking radiator, you may need to follow detailed guides specific to your Galant model, which will walk you through the repair process, including how to replace the radiator and bleed the cooling system afterward. By starting with these straightforward steps, you can effectively diagnose and address coolant leaks, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.
When diagnosing coolant leaks in a Mitsubishi Galant, it's essential to be aware of the common problems that can arise within the cooling system. One frequent issue is the deterioration of rubber hoses, which can become brittle and develop cracks over time, leading to leaks. Additionally, the radiator itself may corrode or sustain damage from road debris, resulting in coolant escaping. Another common culprit is the water pump, which can fail due to wear and tear, causing coolant to leak from the pump seal. It's also important to check the coolant reservoir for cracks or leaks, as this component can often be overlooked. If you notice white smoke from the exhaust, it may indicate a blown head gasket, which can allow coolant to enter the combustion chamber. By understanding these potential failure modes, you can more effectively diagnose and address coolant leaks, ensuring your Mitsubishi Galant remains in optimal condition.
Addressing a coolant leak in your Mitsubishi Galant is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a critical step in ensuring the longevity and safety of your vehicle. Ignoring a coolant leak can lead to severe engine overheating, which may result in catastrophic engine failure and costly repairs. The coolant plays a vital role in regulating engine temperature, and a leak can compromise this function, putting essential components like the water pump and radiator at risk. Moreover, the presence of coolant leaks can manifest in alarming ways, such as white smoke from the exhaust or colorful puddles beneath your car, signaling immediate attention is required. By prioritizing the repair of coolant leaks, you not only safeguard your engine from further damage but also enhance your vehicle's overall performance and reliability, ensuring a safer driving experience.
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