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
If a vehicle is overheating, a bad thermostat could be the problem, and a damaged thermostat housing is more likely to produce a coolant leak, either from a cracked or warped housing or a failed seal to the engine. The thermostat housing can be made of metal or plastic. And the housing can be a stand-alone part that is separate from the thermostat, or (on later model vehicles) can be integrated with the thermostat and replaced as a single unit.
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.
To effectively diagnose and fix a coolant leak in your 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle. Look for any visible signs of coolant pooling under the car or stains on engine components. Begin by checking the radiator, hoses, and water pump, as these are common culprits for leaks. If you don’t find any obvious issues, perform a pressure test on the cooling system to help identify the exact location of the leak. Pay special attention to the radiator cap, as a damaged cap can lead to coolant loss. Next, inspect all hoses for cracks or bulges, and examine the water pump for any signs of corrosion or leakage. Don’t overlook the heater core, which can also leak coolant into the cabin. Additionally, check the gaskets and seals within the cooling system for wear. Once you’ve identified the source of the leak, you can either repair it with sealant or replace the damaged component. Finally, refill the cooling system with the appropriate coolant and ensure that any air is bled from the system to maintain optimal performance. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically address the issue and restore your vehicle’s cooling system functionality.
When dealing with coolant leaks in a 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4, it's essential to understand the various common problems that can arise within the cooling system. A damaged radiator is often a primary culprit, as corrosion or physical damage can lead to significant leaks. Additionally, a faulty water pump may contribute to coolant loss, either through the pump itself or its gasket. Over time, the hoses that connect the cooling system can wear out, leading to leaks that are often exacerbated by loose or damaged hose clamps that fail to create a proper seal. In more severe cases, a cracked engine block can result in external coolant leaks, while a leaking heater core may allow coolant to escape into the vehicle's interior. Lastly, a malfunctioning radiator cap can cause coolant to boil over, resulting in leaks from the overflow tube. By being aware of these potential issues, DIYers can take proactive steps to inspect and maintain their vehicle, ensuring that any coolant leaks are addressed promptly to avoid overheating and engine damage. Regular checks and maintenance can help catch these problems early, making it easier to keep your Mitsubishi Mirage G4 running smoothly.
When it comes to a coolant leak in your 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4, the urgency of addressing the issue cannot be overstated. Coolant plays a vital role in maintaining the engine's temperature, and a leak can quickly lead to overheating, which poses a serious risk of engine damage. If left unchecked, the engine may run excessively hot, causing internal components to warp or fail, leading to expensive repairs that could have been avoided. Additionally, a coolant leak can result in a significant loss of coolant fluid, compromising the engine's cooling efficiency and potentially causing it to stall or operate inefficiently. Moreover, a leak may indicate underlying problems within the cooling system, such as a damaged hose, radiator, or water pump, which could escalate into more severe issues if not addressed promptly. Therefore, it is crucial to take immediate action to repair any coolant leaks to ensure the safety, performance, and longevity of your vehicle.
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