My96 uk turbo.
Have started to notice a strong coolant smell which is more noticable when the heater is on. Both the radiator and header tank have been changed in the last 6 months so i suppose that rules them out.I have also done a visual check and can't see any obvious leaks and have tightened the hoses to the header tank.
What do you reckon??

 

check the inside of the car (foot wells and up under the dash) for damp patches and hope that you dont have what I think my problem is, the heater matrix!!

good luck Ali G

 

Will check that in the morning,anyone else with any other suggestions?.
If the water pump was leaking would it let off the same smell?

 

I would say cabin heater is leaking.

Check drivers footwel if it is wet. If it's not then it's not leaking enough yet but it will in time, belive me, we've been there!

Kristijan

 

Yep I also reckon its probably the heater matrix ( changed mine a few weeks ago) Do you get any condensation or is the smell worse when the heater is on hot demist ??


Steve

 

Yes, the smell is worse when the heater is on hot.I've just checked the floor and no wetness anywhere.

 

Sounds like its the matrix , you could try a radiator sealer first but the best cure is a new matrix (£235) from subaru.
Plan on taking 3 - 4 hours if youre gonna do it yourself.


Steve

 

Yep been there with my previous MY93 WRX I bought a replacement matrix from Grade-A about £60 IIRC - b1tch of a job to do though so paid a garage to do it - MISTAKE - got stung for £300 labour.

Symptoms you have were exactly what I was experiencing - the inside of the windscreen would mist up really bad with condensation and the smell kinda gave the game away. Passengers footwell was also very wet....

 

Thanks for the replies, i've been quoted £150 all in at scoobyclinic.

 

I'd take the deal at £150 if I were you , its an absolute bar steward of a job to do ( especially if you have air con)


Steve