Coolant Smell

[Seatdriver]

Hi,

 

If I leave my 2003 Sharan 1.9 TDi (115) at idle for 5 - 10 minutes there is a strong smell of ethnol coolant from the rear. It cannot be smelt from the front or the sides, and the coolant level doesn't appear to drop.

 

Anyone know of a coolant weakness on these models. Would like an idea before the car is sent to main agents for its next service.

 

Thanks

[Bigjeeze]

Not at all sure - but I don't think that the coolant uses ethanol. Sorry can't help!

[Chris Young]

i was thinking it might be rear windscreen wash leaking.

[johnswlondon]

if the coolant level isnt dropping dont waste money taking to be investigated.when the engine is hot the water rises up the expansion tank and then overflows out a tube through the engine compartment(so the level still reads max rather than blowing the expansion tank seals).you are smelling this escaping fluid,and the fan will draw it to the back of the cabin