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2004 focus SE leaking coolant?

9.8K views 4 replies 3 participants last post by  R.S.LOGAN  
#1 ·
hello:
Found a small puddle in my driveway this morning, and Judging by the low coolant levels and the fact that it didn't seem to have any noticeable color to it (i've put a white pad of paper in place to see what color it is as it leaks out, but it is not oil, and the leak is right in front of the oil pan), I think i am leaking coolant. Looked under the car, and the only place i can see fluid escaping from is behind the ac compressor, where it mounts to the engine. At least, that is the only wet space i can see.

Anybody familliar with this engine? 2.0 L SE wagon. does it even make sense that coolant would come out of where the AC compressor mounts? What is directly above the AC compressor? I understand that is just where it could be dripping on to, but i cannot see past it to identify any further.

Thanks for your time,
Mike
 
#2 ·
If you are losing coolant it may be the water pump leaking . You should see by the colour if it is coolant or not .If in doubt a pressure test on cooling system should show leak . If it is the pump , advisable to replace timing belt at same time .
 
#4 ·
Yeah, i placed a white carboard box down, and it is mainly a clear fluid, with a tinge of orange, which makes me think coolant, combined with the low fluid levels, it makes sense that it is the water pump. Looks like i'm going to the shop, Usually i like to do things at home, but i can't lower the engine @ home, so time to pony up some bucks and get it fixed. Anybody in the future reading this, NTB quoted me about 400 bucks for the water pump, labor and a few extra things i need done like an oil change, tire rotation etc etc etc.

Since I'm @ 77K miles and the recommendation is 80K, i'm just replacing the pump instead of replacing only the gasket.

And I believe the thermostat is on the drivers side of the engine block, at least that is where it is in my wife's car, which has the duratec, and mine seems to be configured the same way.

Thanks for all your help
-mike