The Case of a Mysterious Loss of Engine Coolant

One example of a problem car owners often face is a mystery coolant loss problem where despite an obvious gradual loss of coolant fluid over time, there are no obvious signs of leakage occurring that can be identified by just looking over the engine’s exterior for a leak or for drip stains on the garage floor.

What makes this a dire problem is that loss of coolant can lead to severe damage to a vehicle’s engine.

In cases like this, pressure testing is typically done by connecting a simple pressure gauge fitted handpump to the radiator or coolant reservoir and then applying a specific amount of pressure to the system to see if any visible leaks appear from forced coolant escaping from around the radiator, hoses or block. Often a dye will be added to the coolant that can make finding leaks easier through the use of a black light lamp looking for a telltale green-fluorescent color.

According to a recent FordTechMaculoco YouTube channel episode---regardless of what year your Ford model is---if it has a 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine in it, it is subject to such hidden coolant consumption problems which could be due to leakage into the cylinder or cracks in the block.

As a demonstration of this common problem, the host presents a 2014 Ford Escape with a 1.6L EcoBoost engine in his garage with the reminder that whether it is a 1.5-, 1.6-, 2.0- or 2.3-liter engine---they all share this same common problem. In this particular case, the problem started after only 50,000 miles on the odometer!

Follow along with the host as you will learn how to find a hidden mystery leak and determine the cause of the problem so that you will know if you are looking at a relatively inexpensive repair or a very expensive repair to solve this problem—an important skill to add to your arsenal the next time a tech with a clipboard comes to you with a pricey diagnosis of your car.

Related article: Common Brake Repair Scam in Major Name Tire Centers

Beware of Ford’s 1.5L 1.6L 2.0L EcoBoost Engines and Their Never-Ending Coolant Consumption Issues!

For additional articles about engine problems with Ford vehicles, here are a few for your consideration:

• New Ford Broncos are Having Major Engine Problems

• Ford 5.4L 3V Triton Engine New Problem Explained

• Ford Misfiring Engine Problem? Check This Out First Before Going to Your Mechanic

COMING UP NEXT: Save Money with This Small Anti-Scam Investment for Your Current or Next Car

Timothy Boyer is a Torque News automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites for daily new and used vehicle news.