My car has 104K miles on it and I bought it used in 2002 with 22K miles. I'm embarrassed to say Ihave never changed out the coolant; it's original. After reading various posts on this subject I realize I should have been replacing my coolant every 2 years or so. My coolant level in the overflow bottle appears to be close to the top even though the car is cold. Anyway, the other day, I noticed a puddle of orange colored fluid under the front of the car. I stopped by a repair facility I've used in the past and was told I had a leak in the radiator overflow bottle. The mechanic said the the repair would cost $200 ($125 for part and $75 to install). I decided to do it myself so I ordered a used bottle from a salvage yard ($35). I should receive the part today. In looking at the current bottle on my car, it looks like I have 3 bolts to remove and then an upper and lower radiator hose. It appears I may have to remove the air filter in order to get to one of the bolts. Is that correct?When I remove the hoses I assume the bottle will leak out the coolant that's in it. Since I have never had the coolantchanged, should I also do a complete flush of the system or just drain and refill? I have read other posts regarding the use of the owner's manual recommended coolant (DEX-COOL) versus Prestone or some other "green" coolant. There appears to be differing opinions on the use of DEX COOL or "green". What should I go with and how much do I need?

 

You should use dexcool, is radiator leaking or coolant tank on right fender well?

 

Coolant tank. Under pressure, the tank apparently leaks as the car leaves a puddle of coolant each timeI drive it. So, you recommend DEX-COOL? Other older posts I've read mention that "green" is better.

 

no need to flush .. drain as much as possible and refill with 50/50 solution .. and .. hurry ...
flushing is for ABUSED systems with scale growth.
the hoses are also 9 yrs old? hmmmm .. i bet the serpentine belt also ...

which is better? lets not open that can ...



.