butlersl

First time poster, but love the site and have already put it to use (the cabin air filter DIY) and info on the trannys.

I have a 2000 TL with 128xxx miles and I;ve noticed that my coolant level in the reservoir tank will drop from the Max level to close to the min level over a couple of weeks. I just had the timing belt/water pump replaced, and the Acura place said they noticed no drips, stains, etc while working on the car, and I also had them pressure test the coolant system with no issues. Also, had them check exhaust emissions and they found no trouble signs.

My questions are is this level of coolant drop abnormal? Head gasket issue? It is cold here (below freezing at nite), could it just be temperature effects? No drips in the driveway.

Thanks for your help.

acurabum

Is it the first drop of coolant ? If yes then just refill it to Max and drive it now ....check the reservoir later to see if level drop again .
Sometime after changing the belt/water pump ,there are some air inside the system and
it take 1 or 2 refill to eliminate the air .

fsttyms1

Have you had to fill it at all or did it just drop that one time. If it dropped and you havent had to fill since it is normal. If you have to continually fill it there is a problem and you need to bring it back.

butlersl

Thanks for the quick replies. I bought it used about 3 weeks ago (my 9th Honda vehicle) and had to add coolant after the first week, but didn't notice the level prior to that so it may already have been low. After that, I had the timing belt/water pump replacement last week, and when I checked it yesterday, the reservoir was near the "min" mark. I filled up to near the "max" line and will continue to watch it.

A related question: is it ok to "top off" using Prestone pre-mixed "works with any color, any brand" antifreeze? I know some Honda fluids are mandatory, but what about the antifreeze?

3.2TL-P

could be the lower rad hose giving you trouble. happened to me and i was dripping little drops because it had the tiniest crack in the hose and the clamp couldnt hold it and the pressure when its on. and i use prestone pre mixed with any color. and my cars fine after that hiccup. 25 dollar repair.