2nd time in a week car needed dex.....

Hi eveyone,
This is the second time in a week my car a 2000 alero needed dex. No lights went on but i could see the temp gauge was a tad hi while in traffic. I checked the oil and its clean and the dex and it to is clean. I can't see no smoke or smell from the exhaust and she runs as sweet as day one she has 105,000 on the clock i am just boggeled to where it might be disappearing to. If anyone has a idea please let me know I would appreciate it.
Thank you.......

Welcome to AF.

It would help to post which engine you have...2.4L L4 or 3.4L V6?

Ohhh i'm sorry.. its a v6 3400.

Most likely the common lower intake manifold gasket issue for your unexplained loss of coolant. You may not see any signs of coolant burning off in the exhaust system tailpipes. The CAT convertor vaporizes it due to the 1200 degree F operating temperature. You can get the cooling system pressure tested.

Oh wow thats sounds pretty right... Thank you.. Do you know if that is cheaper than getting a new head gasket? and whats a good price on a new headgasket? Thank you.....

boogie504,

My wife has a 2000 3.4 V6 Alero. The lower intake manifold gasket on her's went about 4 yrs ago. The dealership wanted around 1800 to do the job. She ended up finding a reliable mechanic to do it on the side for 800. Been fixed and working great ever since...

B

Hey Blandon7, 1800 sounds more like a head gasket estimate then a lower intake. Lower intake usually costs $600 to $900 depending on the vehicle (vans are in the upper of the range). If your mechanic did it on the side then he made $700 off you for about 3 to 4 hours of work ($175/hour).

Wow that sounds like alot.... Labor is insane these days. Thank you all for your input. i'm gonna wait a week or so and see how it does if i have i have to add more than i'm going to just get it done. but i'm gonna get a pressure test this weekend and see how it goes from there.. if it needs a new one i'll let everyone know how much it cost me.. Thanks again... If any one knows about remote starts mine stopped working about a month ago and i get a clicking every here and there from my lights as i'm driving its weird.. but if anyone can help that would be great...