Car: 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX TR 94,xxx Miles Modifications: 2 Row Mishimoto Radiator. Everything else is stock. Problem Description: Antifreeze keeps disappearing from the coolant tank next to the intercooler when driving normally. I need to keep adding Antifreeze every day. Engine starts to overheat when pushed above 2500rpm's or when Antifreeze is low in the coolant tank next to the intercooler. Strong smell of Antifreeze from the exhaust Loud screeching/moaning sound's from the Steering pump on cold start ups. It gets worse when I move the steering wheel, I already checked my steering fluid and its full. Recent Modifications/Maintenance: Replaced Timing belt, Thermostat, water pump at 91,xxx Miles New Antifreeze Pink from Napa Other Notes: I have a strong feeling it could be blown Head Gaskets but any input would be greatly appreciated. Can anyone recommend a AutoShop that knows Subaru engine's in the twin cities? Thanks!!
Check the overflow for black oily sludge. (the one next to the fans, this is where you should "add" coolant, it gets sucked into the system automaticly) Get a radiator filler bucket, put it on the tank by the turbo, fill with coolant and watch for a steady stream of bubbles while the thermostat is open. Head gaskets on turbo cars arent very common, Check for leaks around the radiator, they seem to leak from the endtanks somewhat often. Also PM Driftin24o or subytek. edit: NVM you have an aftermarket radiator.
Also check the hose that go to the tank next to the intercooler. Those have been know to be leaky. Also not a true head gasket issue yet, as long as you dont over heat the heads. The screeching noise is most likely your power steering belt slipping across the pulley, Try new v-belts. And pink coolant like from an AUDI/VW?
I believe Subaru is rather insistent on using their own Subaru branded coolant (I have not strayed other than one 2-year interval when the Outback was new and I was ignorant of this requirement/suggestion).
In my experience, you are fine using the green stuff in a 50/50 or premixed 50/50 from an autoparts store. But I don't believe the pink stuff is allowed. I have never purchased Subaru coolant.
But IS NOT mixable with green coolant. In the case that they are mixed, the whole system needs to be flushed and back-flushed, then refilled with the proper coolant.
Subaru also suggests you add their special coolant additive every time you flush your system and add new coolant. Supposedly it acts as a 'leak stop'. This was their quick fix for the head gasket issues in the 2.5 NA engines. I was told that Subaru now uses that stuff in everyone of their vehicles.
