Coolant Leak Mystery

[Davidah]

Hi all

I am a new member so apologies for going straight in with a request for help/guidance.

I have had a 2003 IS200 SE Auto now for only 6 weeks and it has a good lot of service history, but, I think I have a problem........

My car is losing coolant but there is no evidence of a leak anywhere. It doesn't overheat but the radiator cooling fan does come on rather more than I think it should.

I went to a local mechanic today who immediately dismissed any likelihood of an engine fault because it is a Lexus! (Well he said he'd be amazed if there was an engine fault)

Could anyone advise me on what it is likely to be?

The car has done 87000 miles and has full and comprehensive service history.

Any help and avice greatly appreciated.

[BenIS]

No steam or anything?

[Davidah]

Hi and thanks for the reply - well it was putting out steam when the weather was icy cold, but now there is only steam when starting from cold, once the water from the tailpipe has gone, even at max revs, there isn't any steam - equally, the oil is clear.......i'm a bit stumped!

[BenIS]

I only say this because the thermostat went on my mrs golf the other week and all the coolant just got chucked out the expansion tank.

[Deafluggs]

Hi mate.

1st i'd check all the unions and jubilee clips are nice and tight,especially the heater hoses as they get overlooked.

Also check the hoses going to the throttle body,if coolant is leaking anywhere it will leave a pink residue when it's cooled down so look for that too plus always remember to top up the coolant from the expansion tank and not the radiator.

[Davidah]

Thanks all for the help - I will do the requested checks tomorrow and will let you know how I get on:-)

[Davidah]

Well.......it's been in the local Garage today and the verdict is that the Radiator has a small leak!!

Not sure how there has been no water on the floor but i'll take it! £170 and it will be all sorted:-)

Thanks for all your input though!