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coolant leak

Discussion in 'Generation 1 Prius Discussion' started by paul eggers, Jan 26, 2014.

  1. paul eggers

    paul eggers New Member

    Joined:
    Jan 26, 2014
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    Vehicle:
    2002 Prius
    Model:
    I
    Hi
    I recently bought a 2002 prius with 65000 mi. I have been driving it for a few weeks and everything seems to be working good. I noticed there was no engine coolant in the reserve bottle and added a quart to bring it to the full line. The next day I noticed leaking coolant, but it is on the drivers side where I believe only the inverter components are. I really don't know though. The engine coolant level has dropped down. Does the engine coolant flow over on the drivers side? I cant tell exactly where the leak is. Any thoughts on what to check or ideas at all are appreciated.
     
    #1 paul eggers, Jan 26, 2014
  2. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    Location:
    Green Valley, AZ
    Vehicle:
    2015 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    Hi Paul,

    I suggest that you will have to get under the car and look around to find the leak. In particular, look at the radiator as well as the hoses between the engine and radiator. Also, open the radiator cap and make sure that coolant is at the very top of the radiator neck.
     
    #2 Patrick Wong, Jan 26, 2014
  3. Delroy

    Delroy Junior Member

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    Aug 25, 2017
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    Location:
    Indiana
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    ----USA----
    I have a 2010 Prius that I just bought as a second car since I travel a lot for my Job. I noticed that every other week when I check my coolant level it is very low and I have to add at least a quart too. I mentioned this to the dealer I bought it from but he did not give me a good answer. The reason that I check the coolant level is because the engine temp. indicator came on, and sure enough, the coolant level was low. I checked the hose connections etc. and I saw no visible signs of leaks. What else could be the problem? This is the first car that I ever had where I have to constantly add coolant.
     
    #3 Delroy, Aug 25, 2017
  4. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    Location:
    Green Valley, AZ
    Vehicle:
    2015 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    Check the engine oil level and quality on the dipstick. You probably have a leaking head gasket. If you see coolant in the oil or oil in the coolant, that is proof.
     
    #4 Patrick Wong, Aug 25, 2017
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