In addition to looking for fluid leaks around the engine compartment, also check the level and quality of the various fluids. After the engine has cooled down sufficiently, remove the radiator cap and look at the bottom of the cap. Caution: Do not remove the radiator cap while the system is hot and under pressure [...]

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The protectant spray that the detailers may have used will have left all hoses and wiring looking externally shiny and new, but could disguise any parts that may need replacement. Squeeze the radiator and heater hoses and feel for cracking or brittleness. Look carefully at the ends of hoses, where they are clamped. Swelling  just [...]

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A better indicator of oil-change frequency would be looking at the underside of the oil filler cap, checking for sludge or even condensation of water vapor, which could indicate a combustion leak (leaky head gasket or cracked head). If the oil appears thick and milky, it is usually an indication that coolant is somehow getting [...]

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Not every shop has this particular test device (although almost all radiator shops do), but if the balance test and compression test indicated a problem, this test might be called for. A device samples coolant from the radiator with the engine running at high idle, and a test liquid changes color if there are combustion [...]

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