Engine Cooling System

Problem:
Loss of coolant from engine, but without any noticeable leaks or puddles under vehicle. This may start as a mere adding of a small amount of coolant (anti-freeze) from time to time to keep the level up. However, it will become extreme (i.e. a quart a week).

Cause:
Intake manifold gasket has some sort of known problem with it from the manufacturer. It is known because they issued a new OEM part number for it that has a fix to it. Be sure that you get this new replacement part. For the coolant to be leaving the cooling system it has to go somewhere and if there are no exterior sign of leaks then it is going inside the engine. It is better to have the coolant leaking to the outside. See the reverse of this. When the coolant/water begins mixing with your engine oil you will soon have MAJOR engine repairs coming to you if left for a prolonged time (days to weeks).

DIY Fix:
Purchase the new replacement gasket part, a recommended liquid gasket sealer (someone help me with a good technical term for this or brand/product), and the know-how on removing the top end of the engine and intake manifold.

Repair Center Fix:
I got a price estimate from a family trusted mechanic shop on the 'nicer' side of town of $550 and they could get it done in about 3 days. I ended up taking it to the Barrio (Ghetto) side of town to MY trusted mechanics who work out of a garage that resembles a large shack and they got it done in 24 hours and charged me $275.

On a side note since that side of town was a bit far I even paid $95 for a tow and still saved almost $200 and got my car back on the road faster!

Pictures of the area the leak appears coming soon...