Topic: Coolant Smell

[JFortner5]

I've been trying to track down what I believe is a coolant leak. Sometimes I get a whiff of coolant when I am stopped at a light but I mostly notice it when I park and get out. Its not every time but probably half the time. I have not been able to find a leak anywhere. I believe the radiator has been replaced, it looks newer than everything else.

Is it possible that the coolant smell is coming from the overflow tank?  I'm not losing any, I've been checking it pretty often over the last month. Any ideas?

[Jeffy]

Inside the Jeep or outside?

[JFortner5]

I've smelled it inside only a little but the top was down and I was stopped. I did check the floorboard and found nothing. I usually just notice it when I park and get out and walk around the front.

[Jeffy]

I've smelled it inside only a little but the top was down and I was stopped. I did check the floorboard and found nothing. I usually just notice it when I park and get out and walk around the front.

Well, if it leaks inside it could pool in the vents.  I'm going to bet it's probably a radiator hose that's a little lose and mists when it's under pressure.  Pinholes in the hoses can also be hard to find unless it's leaving residue on the engine or hood.

[JFortner5]

I hope thats what it is.  The hoses do feel a little spongy if that makes sense.  They dont feel like a nice new rubber hose.  I probably need to replace them and flush the cooling system and go from there.  I need to do it before it  blows out and leaves me stranded somewhere especially since the highs are getting to be about 90* every day now.

[sharpxmen]

I hope thats what it is.  The hoses do feel a little spongy if that makes sense.

it makes sense - usually they get like that if you have oil or p/s fluid sprayed on them.