resevoir does not hold anti-freeze, but car doesn't not overheat? where is the problem?

Asked by devildriver Jul 19, 2007 at 03:09 PM about the 2004 Dodge Intrepid SE FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

my check engine light came on, went to autozone. was told to check coolant-the resevoir was dry. this model has the radiator cap on the resevoir so i had to wait till it cooled to add coolant. the car has not overheated even with the AC on in stopped traffic. this was a couple of months ago and now it has done it again. do not see any sign of leakage...but them i haven't thought to look and now it is raining everyday, so any leakage is washed away.
isn't there an additive you can runt thru the radiator that might stop small leaks?

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littlehorn answered 17 years ago

There is an additive you can put in the radiator called Bars-Leaks, which will stop most small leaks. Perhaps a hose is leaking or water is getting out through the weep hole in the water pump. Without seeing the vehicle it is difficult to make a proper diagnosis. The 2.7L engine found in some Intrepids is known to develop head gasket leaks, so you may be using coolant by it leaking inside the engine and being burnt up while the engine is running. Check your tailpipe area on start-up for whitish smoke.

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