[redwagon]

My wagon has been going through a lot of coolant lately. I
filled it up about a month ago and the light came on again this morning.
I can't find a leak. Anyone had or know what the problem might be?

 

[sulley007]

Have you checked the oil dipstick? If coolant is leaking into the engine it turns the oil a milky color.

 

[redwagon]

red wagon volvo

I drove it to work today. I went through one tank of coolant. Stopped at Pep Boys (the only place near my work) to have a so called mechanic look at it. We put 2 quarts of oil in it and he said it was ok to drive. Coolant light came back on and it the car started smoking from the inside. AAA picked me up on the freeway and dropped it off at a mechanic. I'm a single female trying not to get screwed in LA. So any advice is helpful. Thanks!

 

[sulley007]

I would take a look at the oil yourself. Pull the dipstick out and see if it looks milky. If it does not then you can eliminate that. Do you have wet carpets in the driver or passenger floor boards? When you park the car do you notice any wet spots under the car?

 

[redwagon]

the oil looks clean. there is a wet spot on the carpet near the driver side but i thought i might have spilt the coolant. no wet spots under the car i tested that today.

 

[sulley007]

If you have a wet spot in the carpet that could indicate a leak in your heater core. Double check the dampness in that area.

 

[99xc70]

Heater core.....I had mine replaced for $264.00 ( includes labor ) Check out eeuroparts.com

 

[magna224]

My heater core was leaking and I paid $50 for a new one on ebay and did the work myself and I have 0 car experience. Its really easy. Posting in dead threads for future reference is awesome.