2001 SS with 135,000. I noticed the coolant level low in the reservoir (there's only about an inch high of coolant when cold) and have not seen nor found an external leak. I checked the oil and it looked good (not milky or grayish). I wonder if I should top off the coolant and see what happens or should I bring in to shop? What do you all think? Or, where should I be looking. The dealership will cost 91.00 to diagnose (if there's anything) or should I have a pressure test done on the system?

Please thoughs & feedback would be really appreciated.
Thanks again!

 

Get the system pressure tested...

Coolant does not go low for no reason.

I would guess you probably have the dreaded lower intake gasket leak. Very common on the 3.8L. If so, you need to fix it ASAP.

 

Pressure check, i can have it done here for about 25 bucks. not sure about where you're at, but its definitely cheaper than 91, stupid dealers.
Either what Michael said, or check your water pump. My mechanic said that mines need replacing, i also have a small coolant leak, i checked the hoses and underneath ... clean! water pump, if not i will have to go by what michael posted.

 

Since the oil is not milky it is likely a leak.

How old is the radiator cap? It is usually a cheap remove and replace.

The pressure test would definitely tell you if you have a leak. But most of us look for leaks at the hoses, water pump and reservoir. Most likely the water pump with that many miles.

If you don't have one static and don't want to pressure test with test equipment you need to do a run test. Start it and wait till it heats up. Take a bright light and scan over the hoses, radiator, sensor fittings, and resevoir to see if you have any pressure pin hole leaks. Then look at the water pump to see if you have a slight drip.

One thing for certain, if you just top off the reservoir it will get worse and you will be able to find it. Of course finding it in the middle of nowhere can be a bad thing.

 

I also have a leak somewhere. It is actually wet on the passenger side frame area, directly below the main pully. Not sure if this is water pump, or intake manifold leak.
Other problem is when I am driving, I can smell coolant and my windows fog up. I know on old cars, the heater core was inside on the firewall. I dont know why my windows would fog up just because my car leaks coolant under the motor. Any ideas?
2005 SS Monte Supercharged, 25,000 miles

 

Hey guys - did the pressure check and a pin hole in a hose and I was very happy to hear that. thanks for all your replies!

 

Good to hear it was nice and simple! Those are the best car repairs! LOL

 

so what did you find out with the pressure test nightmare?? was there a leak or some thing very simple?

 

The 3.8 does not have the lower intake gasket leak like the 3.1 and 3.4. It has troubles with the plastic intake breaking. Just did intake gaskets on my sons 97 3.1 Monte. Man it's FUN FUN FUN...........

 

Update - had pressure test and a pin hole in a hose, which was great news and probably why I couldn't see/find a leak with naked eye. As for the plastic intake, mine went well before 36K - but that leak was evident. So thanks again guys for all your help.