Cooling system problems :(

[vw_joe]

I dropped the coolant on my polo a couple of weeks ago and put fresh in. Following the Haynes manual instructions. But my coolant light keeps coming on and my level keeps decreasing. Even though i cant see any signs of any leaks anywhere.

Anyone got any ideas about what could be happening and how to correct it?

[Tim_GTi]

Sounds like you missed a few pointers out when you re-filled the coolant.

Turn the engine on and put the heaters on full, then top up the coolant with water/anti-freeze mix. You'll need to keep an eye on the level for about 20 mins. Once it's looking good take the car for a good drive to bring the temp up to 90, this will open up the thermostate and cause the coolant to fully circulate.

Check the levels again and top up with water if necessary.

What's happened there's air pockets in your system which have left you with a lack of coolant, and the thermo to read off as it's reading a combination of the water and air in teh system.

[vw_joe]

Cheers mate, i will try again when i get time Thanks again.

[vw_joe]

Ahh...i found out today whilst putting my new exhaust on that i have found a water leak. It seems to be coming from the driver's side of the engine. Any ideas what could have happened?

[alexperkins]

a gasket, or the coolant pipe that runs down the back of the engine has overheated and split. you need to get up underneath it really to have a good look.

[vw_joe]

Cheers fella. I will do just that.

[vw_joe]

It ended up being the water pump being f**ked. Replaced it and put a new cam belt on it today