2009 Lexus RX350, it failed the pressure test but we still couldn’t figure out where the leak is. He tested the head gasket it came back inconclusive, we can look into this further but it’s going to be even more expensive. It’s not in the oil, there’s no white smoke, I haven’t noticed external leaks, not in the transmission fluid either.
First started a little over a month ago when I noticed the reservoir was empty when we were traveling. We decided to do a radiator flush and bled the system then continued to check it until we could make it back home to the mechanic. It never leaked again and he told me to just take it home and keep an eye on it. Yesterday I went to check the coolant for the first time in 3 days (I haven’t driven much) and the reservoir was empty and the radiator is super low. I’m going to refill it and take it in but I’m unsure what the issue could be and where this could be going?? Anyone have other ideas to check?
Thank you everyone for the advice! I have several good starting points now before the dreaded head gasket repair if that’s what we need. After I posted this I realized that there is a white chalky residue all over the engine, that was actually dried coolant. I just didn’t question it before with the snow and salt on the roads. So it definitely is going somewhere externally, just need to find where it’s coming out of.
Couldn’t leave the house today but planning on getting more coolant & test strips before taking it into the mechanic tomorrow. Then a new radiator cap for the hell of it as it’s probably never been changed so might as well try the easiest thing first. Really hoping it’s an easy fix but prepared for the worst lol.
It the head gasket unfortunately, finally had a positive test. Thank you everyone for the advice!