2002 Alero Gasket leak Coolant 3.4lt

Okay Here's the deal,

I have an 02 Alero with 73 k miles, I 've recently experienced a coolant leak. Having done some internet reading, and tracking the leak down, it appears to be the intake manifold gasket, which seem to be a common problem with the 3.4 GM motor.

Will using Pellets or other Radiator / gasket sealing additives cure this problem?? Or do I have to bite the bullet and have the Gaskets replaced?

Thanks all

:confused:

Okay Here's the deal,

I have an 02 Alero with 73 k miles, I 've recently experienced a coolant leak. Having done some internet reading, and tracking the leak down, it appears to be the intake manifold gasket, which seem to be a common problem with the 3.4 GM motor.

Will using Pellets or other Radiator / gasket sealing additives cure this problem?? Or do I have to bite the bullet and have the Gaskets replaced?

Thanks all

:confused:

It depends on how bad the leak is. If you're experiencing coolant in the oil or overheating the GM coolant sealing tabs aka sawdust tablets or other sealing additives may not work. GM Customer Service Bulletin #03034 and recall covers the procedure for the coolant tabs, however, it only applies to certain GMs with 3800 Series II engines. I don't think the bulletin covers Aleros with the 3.4L SFI V6 but it doesn't hurt to ask a GM dealer. They have the proper formula based on your engine and coolant system capacity for specifically Dexcool antifreeze.

We were lucky and had the intake gasket changed before the bumper to bumper warranty expired.

BTW - The GM coolant sealing tabs is a very controversial subject.

bnaylor3400-How are you doing my friend. About the coolent leak, i had the same problem. I never saw any recalls for this. I wish they did do one though. i have 117,000mi on my 99 alero. If you see a coolent leak, make sure its not leaking in your engine, once it mixes with you oil, your engine is done. So, what ever desision you make, do it VERY soon. bnaylor3400-do you concer? That just my thought on this issue.

bnaylor3400-How are you doing my friend. About the coolent leak, i had the same problem. I never saw any recalls for this. I wish they did do one though. i have 117,000mi on my 99 alero. If you see a coolent leak, make sure its not leaking in your engine, once it mixes with you oil, your engine is done. So, what ever desision you make, do it VERY soon. bnaylor3400-do you concer? That just my thought on this issue.

Hey Andrew (Vamc) what's up. Got the pics. Nice Alero! Same color as my GTP.

Actually, there isn't a recall out on the intake manifold gasket for the Alero 3.4L just a Technical Service Bulletin where they will change it for free if under warranty. The one I mentioned is for certain GMs with the 3800 Series II engine and the reason I brought it up is because it mentions something about GM actually using coolant system sealing tabs on new cars at the factory and as a cure if the intake manifold gasket is not a basket case. I got a recall notice on my Regal GS and disregarded the notice. I'll be damned if I'll let them put these sealing tabs in my car.

I totally agree that if you suspect you have an intake manifold gasket problem, it needs to be replaced as soon as possible. You had that done didn't you. How much did they charge you?

Hey, hows it going? Im good. Yeah i had them replased, it was approx 450bucks. i guess not to bad concidering it did not mix with the oil. I wish i got a recall for that gasket, but thats life! Take it easy sir, talk to you later.