Volvo XC70 Coolant Loss

My 2002 Volvo XC70 with a gasoline engine is showing a persistent low coolant level. The check engine light is on, and there's an error code related to coolant. I don't see any external leaks. The car has 42312 km on the clock. Could a faulty radiator cap be the problem, or should I check the coolant reservoir, radiator hoses, or maybe a head gasket?

4 comment(s)

Low coolant is never good. Since you're not seeing external leaks, a cooling system pressure test would be a good first step. That will show any small leaks in the radiator, hoses, or even the water pump. Has the system ever been flushed, and what coolant type are you using?

I haven't pressure tested it yet, but I know how. Coolant was replaced 3 years ago, using the correct Volvo-spec coolant. Could air pockets be trapped in the system, causing the low level reading?

Air pockets are possible, especially after a coolant change. Sometimes, they can be hard to bleed out. But persistent low coolant usually means a leak, internal or external. Given the age, I'd suggest a thorough inspection. If you're not comfortable doing a full diagnostic, a workshop is the best bet.

Thanks for the insight. I pressure tested the system and it was a slightly leaking radiator cap. Replaced it for 52€ and the problem is solved.

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