I recently replaced the water passage pipe on my 99 TL, it was in a high level of corrosion until it cracked. After the mechanic replaced it he noticed the new pipe and o-ring was not sealing completely on the side of the engine's block.So he got a thicker o-ring to match it. After running the car for a few days the car started overheating again. Took it back to the mechanic. he said the engine's block was corroded too so he put some kind of sealing compound (can't remember the name/brand). Drove it for a week and then it started again. Needless to say, I did not take it to him again. But it got worse since then, the car now takes a lot of air inside and after a mile the temp gauge starts to raise. I stop and slightly loosen the radiator cap and pressurized air comes out. So I have to fill it coolant or water every time I want to drive. This sucks.

When i put antifreeze in it it overheats faster, it works better with only water. Unsure why.

any input would help on the decision as to what to do with the car: sell it? buy new engine? how to repair it?
I will add a picture later.




note: I am on Mexico, close to the US border.

 

Find a competent mechanic and have him try to fix it properly?

 

Might be cheaper to just replace engine. You can get engines for pretty darn cheap nowadays.

 

Was the engine block corroded internally.....?
Check with another mechanic and have the system pressure checked and properly diagnosed before replacing the engine. Our cooling systems are normally pretty good if maintained on a regular basis. If water only is used, rust will happen quicker !

 

Thanks everyone,

I noticed some water steam on the oil cap. So, I guess the gaskets have been slightly blown since I haven't seen any on the engine oil dipstick. I suppose my best option now is get a new engine. All the head parts and labor would be more expensive.

 

junkyard motors are fine,,install a new timing belt and good water pump on it

If you go more than 7 years on OE coolant,,,or 5 years on aftermarket you are risking engine death
stuff in coolant goes bad and turns acidic in an aluminum home,
,probably the corrosion the mechanic noted and how severe it was
He tried a band aid approach but the damage was already done

moisture in oil cap- bad news
loss of coolant -bad news
likely blown head gaskets and still running--a mile at a time
STOP driving it