Recently replaced thermostat on car when gauge went above normal on drive home from work. Flushed coolant with replacement of thermostat and was able to drive ~200 miles to work, etc with no problem. Went to get gas down the road and gauge started going above normal (never all the way to H) and drove it home and parked it. The following day there was a huge puddle of coolant under my car but had not had a coolant leak issue or at least was not aware of one. Trying to diagnose if it could be that or could be something wrong with the water pump or radiator.
What makes this problem better or worse?
Worse when cold
How long has your 2006 Toyota Camry had this problem?
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Hi, this is Bo, an auto expert on RepairPal's Car Genius team!
Your Camry is clearly springing a leak after playing it cool for a few days. Based on the puddle and your symptoms, the water pump is a prime suspect—especially since it's tied to your car's heating and cooling woes. The pump has a weep hole designed to leak when the internal seal fails, so if coolant is dripping from the timing cover area, that's likely your culprit.
That said, a radiator crack or hose issue could also cause a sudden loss of coolant. Check the radiator and all hoses for visible damage or loose clamps. The colder weather might be making an already weakened seal or crack more noticeable.
If the water pump is at fault, don’t delay repairs—running low on coolant can toast your engine faster than you can say “head gasket.” Keep the reservoir topped off and get it inspected pronto.
My last thought is that it's never a bad idea to recheck your thermostat work as well. make sure the hose clamps are tight and everything is reconnected correctly!
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