Have a possible big problem with the car.

Noticed recently the coolant level keeps dropping, but is now getting worse.

I fill the level to the top, and the header tank is empty after a 25 mile drive (to work)

There are no visible leaks in the engine bay, and doesn't seem to be leaving puddles when parked up.

There is no water in the oil, or oil in the water, but am still worried the head gasket may have gone.

Anyone else suffered similar?

 

Mine did this when i had a leaky thermostat housing. I managed to unscrew one of the two bolts when I was changing my timing belt and didn't put it back on, and it would leak water only when the thermostat opened, so i never got puddles under the car.

Probably not what your problem is, but I was suspecting HG at first as well as it was "using" quite a bit of water

Is it possible that the rad or hoses only leak when the thermostat is open (creating higher pressures in the rad + associated pipework) and that the leak seals up again once the thermostat closes?

 

Am having it pressure tested on Saturday, so should notice if the rad or pipe has a leak

 

Moley, what was the problem in the end? HG?

 

i had a similar problem

 

Put the car up on a ramp and noticed the rad was leaking, so have replaced it.

Can't check if the problem is cured, as the reason we had the car on the ramp was because one of my coilovers has died, and can't drive the car untill i have sorted a new set.

Aaarrrggghh!!!!

 

LOL frustrating, yes... but if rad was leaking then hopefully (and probably) that's the cause! Rather that than the HG obviously (unlike my own situation ...)