1997 Cadillac Deville d'Elegance
180,000 - just this week diagnosed with the DREADED HEAD GASKET LEAK,
which may have been going on for some time now.
Over past year, I've had to keep topping off the coolant; and have had some external leaks - I've essentially had the entire cooling system replaced; water heater, radiator, heater hoses, radiator cap, overflow tank, thermostat and couplings, etc., etc.
Last weekend, the car overheated; first I got the 'check coolant level' notice - checked the coolant temp, which was 248. I immediately stopped, let it cool, then limped the car back to the repair shop I have been using. While limping back I got the 'engine overheated', 'idle engine', 'stop engine', and 'change engine oil' lights come on.
There are leaking seals at both ends of the metal tube that runs the coolant through the engine. The mechanic (and as far as I know, this is the FIRST TIME anyone did this test) - did find exhaust fumes in the coolant tank, indicating the DREADED HEAD GASKET LEAK. The dealership has also since confirmed these findings.
The repair will be about $3,000; and I have decided not to do it. I'll be buying a replacement car.