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. For the 3.8L and 5.7L engine, 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. For the 3.8L and 5.7L engine, 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 Fastener Tightening Specifications in Engine Mechanical.
  2. Tighten the cylinder head bolts to the specification. If necessary, replace the cylinder head gasket. Refer to Cylinder Head Replacement in Engine Mechanical 3.8L or Cylinder Head Removal (Left Side) or Cylinder Head Removal (Right Side) 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

--