So I have a 2007 Saturn ion, and every three to four days the coolant reservoir drops to about half full and there's no visible leak and no evidence of a blown head gasket. What are some other things I can look for to try and diagnose what's going on with my car?

 

Water pump leaks are common and difficult to see. The water pump is on the firewall side of the engine and is driven off a chain inside the front cover. If the pump is leaking it might be seen on the passenger side frame rail just behind the tire. Maybe some white crusty looking stuff.

 

Make sure the cap on the radiator and the reservoir are both in good condition and fit tight. And check the overflow hose for any cracks or splits near the clamps.

 

Also, inspect the coolant reservoir very carefully with the engine running at operating temperature and right after you turn it off. Sometimes, vibrations and chafing will wear a tiny pinhole in the side of the reservoir. It will not leak until under significant pressure ie operating temperature and when it gets to a certain level it will tend not to leak as much. Don't think the vues were known for that, just throwing it out there. Andy's suggestion of the water pump is much more logical.

 

It so happens that from time to time the cylinder head gasket breaks, and through the hole formed, antifreeze begins to seep into the engine cylinders, where it mixes with oil. This manifests itself in the form of a thick white smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe when you press the gas pedal.This is one of the reasons, in fact, there can be many

 

Post title says no white smoke.

??

 

And it's been about 7 months since the OP. And she never responded. What a turd.

 

Yeah, that happens.

Thread closed.