Reader Question
Austin, you replied to my email last week when I asked why my car was overheating and wanted your opinion. Thanks for the reply, but I am still not understanding your comment about getting a “cooling system pressure test”, what does that mean?
Andrea
Hello Andrea,
I am soo sorry, I sometimes just ASSUME my readers can look inside my head and understand what I am trying to type.
A cooling system pressure test is what I recommend anyone do when they have an overheating problem or a coolant leak that they can not find.
Basically the test is just a small air pump that will attach to the radiator. The mechanic then pumps air inside the radiator (that is full of water) to help locate the leak.
This test will not only tell you if there is an external coolant leak like a radiator hose or water pump but it can also help determine if there is an internal coolant leak like from a leaking headgasket.
I would NOT skip this test unless you can obviously see the coolant leak with your eyes. This test will save you a lot of time and money guessing at the wrong part.
If your mechanic tells you the headgasket is leaking and he has NOT done a pressure test….run….run….he is just guessing and it is going to cost you a lot of money.
Prescription without diagnosis is malpractice :)
I found a really good video explanation of the pressure tester and how it works.
Blessings,
Austin Davis
Facebook likes, Google + and Tweets gladly accepted!