3rd & 4th Generation (1992–1996 & 1997–2001)Toyota Camry Discussion for years: 1992-1996 & 1997-2001
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I just discover my car has a thirst but its not for Gas nor Oil its Coolant, i looked at it monday and it was hovering just above the Low line so i topped it up figurign its a 90 degree day she may just running a bit hot, even though the temp never got past just over half way, so what could this be cause
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1997 Toyota Camry XLE V6- 308500 and counting
Check for leaks with engine off and cold. With engine running, open hood and check high and low for leaks. (Don't get your fingers in any moving parts!) Is water pump weep hole leaking? If nothing then look at oil dip stick for signs of coolant. Usually shows up as 'milky' spots. Still nothing then check exhaust after engine is warmed up for whitish 'smoke'. This is normal on startup but should not be present when warmed up. Coolant in oil or from exhaust is usually a bad head gasket.
I had the same problem with my '96 5SFE, and I assume the 97 is similar. It was using A LOT of coolant...turned out to be the apparent "classic hair line crack" across the top of the radiator, near the radiator cap. Once the engine heats up, check for any "steam" you may see near the radiator cap. And don't breathe that stuff in. Coolant vapor isn't exactly non-toxic.
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Temporary DD: 07 Honda Ruckus TOTALED: '03 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer 4x4 5.4L, '96 Camry LE 5S May '10: '11 Sienna V6 XLE FWD 8-pass. July '10: '06 Matrix XR Auto FWD Oct. '09: '05 RAV-4 L 4WD
Some auto parts stores have loaner tools. If you can get a radiator pressure tester you can pressurize your cooling system and maybe see where it leaks out of. If you have been noticing any white smoke out of the exhaust (especially during cold starts) then you may have a blown head gasket.
Kep
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Often, it's the loose screw between the steering wheel and the driver's seat that needs to be fixed first!
If you get the coolant to leak under pressure you should be able to track down the leak. You may need to add a UV dye to find it. If it isn't coming out in the oil or exhaust I believe that it will be visible.
By the way, you said that you topped it off. Has it dropped down again? How much in how many miles?
Kep
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Often, it's the loose screw between the steering wheel and the driver's seat that needs to be fixed first!
Actually got some bad heater hose once. At idle I could see no leaks but when I revved the engine, a whole row of pinholes shot coolant out in a fine mist. Pressure test would have found it too.
If you get the coolant to leak under pressure you should be able to track down the leak. You may need to add a UV dye to find it. If it isn't coming out in the oil or exhaust I believe that it will be visible.
By the way, you said that you topped it off. Has it dropped down again? How much in how many miles?
Kep
Yes Monday,Funny Thing it rose Friday,304500 Km
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1997 Toyota Camry XLE V6- 308500 and counting
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