C6 Coolant Leak To many options to resolve - were do you start?

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Jan 1, 2024 | 04:33 PM

wellar

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Joined: Jan 2020

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C6 Coolant Leak To many options to resolve - were do you start?

Happy New Year All!

2008 A6/ 3.2 L / 175k miles / FYI....Just replaced steering rack

Issue: Coolant loss without noticeable leaks or motor oil contamination and lack any smell.

I have researched this topic and have not found a clear path to take. One thought is to start out with least expense items ( hoses, expansion tank, etc..) but would rather have some diagnoses to increase by odds.

Seems this is a common problem with numerous causes: hoses connect to engine block leak, older hoes crack/develop holes, water pump, thermostat and/or pipe, expansion tank and/or bad cap, PCV, etc..

Looking for recommendation as to were to start, just don't to be randomly picking items to replace?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts!

Jim

Jan 2, 2024 | 08:13 AM

wellar

Thread Starter

AudiWorld Junior Member

Joined: Jan 2020

Posts: 11

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Pulled the bottom diaper pad, did a deep dive and found a pin hole leak in the radiator.

Just in case your wondering how to replace, found a great video which is making this job much easier:

Now since I have the bumper pulled wondering if there are any upgraded direct replacement fog lights and/or headlights....

Thanks to all for sharing.

Jan 2, 2024 | 08:29 AM

UCLABB

AudiWorld Member

Joined: Jul 2014

Posts: 167

Likes: 13

My son's car (formerly mine) had this same problem. Coolant loss, but no indication of where it was going. Took it to a shop and they said it was a bad water pump and replaced it. Was fine thereafter.