GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Value

Yes

No

1

  1. Check for a wrong or defective radiator fill cap.
  2. Perform a cap pressure test. Refer to Pressure Cap Testing . If necessary, replace the fill cap.

Is there still a coolant loss?

124 kPa (18 psi)

Go to Step 2

System OK

2

  1. Check for a distorted radiator fill neck.
  2. If the upper sealing area of the fill neck is distorted, use a wood block and a mallet to reshape the neck in order to fit the cap.

Is there still a coolant loss?

--

Go to Step 3

System OK

3

  1. Check for a leaking coolant recovery reservoir.
  2. Check for a loose or damaged reservoir hose.
  3. If the reservoir or hose is damaged, replace the reservoir or the hose. Refer to Coolant Recovery Reservoir Replacement .

Is there still a coolant loss?

--

Go to Step 4

System OK

4

  1. Check for any loose or damaged radiator hoses or heater hoses.
  2. Re-seat the hoses and clamps. If necessary, replace the hoses and the clamps.

Is there still a coolant loss?

--

Go to Step 5

System OK

5

  1. Check for a water pump gasket leak.
  2. If necessary, replace the water pump gasket. Refer to Water Pump Replacement .

Is there still a coolant loss?

--

Go to Step 6

System OK

6

  1. Check for a seal leak at the water pump.
  2. If the seal is leaking, replace the water pump. Refer to Water Pump Replacement .

Is there still a coolant loss?

--

Go to Step 7

System OK

7

  1. Check if the cylinder head bolts are tightened to specification. Refer to the following procedures:
  2. •  Fastener Tightening Specifications in Engine Mechanical - 3.8L
    •  Fastener Tightening Specifications in Engine Mechanical - 5.7L
  3. Tighten the cylinder head bolts to the specification. If necessary, replace the cylinder head gasket. Refer to one of the following procedures:
  4. •  Cylinder Head Replacement in Engine Mechanical 3.8L
    •  Cylinder Head Replacement in Engine Mechanical-5.7L.

Is there still a coolant loss?

--

Go to Step 8

System OK

8

  1. Check for any coolant leaks at the radiator.
  2. Inspect the radiator.
  3. If necessary, replace the radiator. Refer to Radiator Replacement .

Is there still a loss of coolant?

--

Go to Step 9

System OK

9

  1. Check the following for leaks:
  2. • The intake manifold
    • The cylinder head gasket
    • The engine block coolant drain hole plug or the knock sensor
    • The heater core
  3. Make the necessary repairs or replace the components as necessary in order to repair the leak.

Is the repair complete?

--

System OK

--