Could really use some advice on what to do about a coolant leak that’s been an issue for a while.
I’ve noticed coolant going down in my Escape’s reservoir. No warning codes, no misfires, no smoke, but the coolant level dips just below the Min line before I top it off again.
I had a local mechanic (not a dealership) look at it. He couldn’t find any external leaks and suspects it’s an internal issue, maybe leaking into the engine or transmission.
The car has 199,513 km, about 121,000 miles.
Should I consider selling it while it’s still running smoothly?
Or should I get another opinion? The mechanic didn’t do a pressure test and spent about two hours checking the radiator, hoses, water pump, etc., without finding leaks. A dealership might cost $200+ just to tell me what I fear.
Could really use some guidance. I’ve heard of coolant issues with newer 2.0 Escapes (from 2017), but not much with my model.
Esme said:
If you’re not prepared for a possible engine replacement, selling might be the best option. This could be an early sign of coolant intrusion.
I get where you’re coming from, but I hate the idea of passing it on to someone else who’d have no idea. But I don’t know what the best choice here is either.
@Hunter
I wouldn’t sell it privately. I’d trade it in or sell it to a cash-for-cars place. I’d feel bad selling it directly to someone if there’s a major problem.
Skyler said: @Hunter
I wouldn’t sell it privately. I’d trade it in or sell it to a cash-for-cars place. I’d feel bad selling it directly to someone if there’s a major problem.
That makes sense. I’ve seen so many posts in this forum about people buying Escapes that immediately had issues. It’s tough. Best of luck, hope you get it sorted out.
I’m working on a 2015 2.0 with a similar issue. The mechanic guessing there’s coolant intrusion isn’t enough—he should check with a scope camera.
For me, the problem was a cracked coolant reservoir. Once pressurized, it showed small cracks. There’s also a heater core hose in the back that’s hard to see and could leak.
The coolant issues with 2.0 engines usually started with the 2017 model when Ford changed the block. Not saying that’s not your issue, but it seems less likely given your model.
I’d get another opinion, but make sure to have it documented so you can refer back to the first mechanic if needed.
@Emma
Thank you! Given the age of the car, it could definitely be the reservoir or a hose. Didn’t think about the heater core. Mechanic only charged me $60 CAD, so maybe he was stumped, too.
I’ll try a more experienced mechanic, maybe get a pressure test or add dye. I really like the car and hope it’s just a minor leak.
@Skyler
I have a 2014 1.6, and my coolant gets low every 6-12 months. The dash gives a low coolant warning, and I refill it. It’s been fine otherwise, now at 117k miles (bought at 37k in 2020).
If you’re at 100k, I’d recommend a coolant flush, transmission flush, and spark plugs. Ford’s quick lane service offers it at a decent price.
I’ve had my 2014 Escape for 10 years, 104,000 miles on it. I feel like I’ve gotten my money’s worth, so I plan to keep it until it’s done. It doesn’t have much trade-in value anyway, and there’s a chance it’s not even the head gasket causing your issue. I say just keep driving it.
I’ve had similar coolant issues with my Escape. Sometimes it’s a slow leak you can’t easily spot. You may need to go through trial and error or check less obvious areas like the heater core.