Can anyone elaborate on what I can expect in repair costs to get this coolant leak fixed? Unfortunately I live in an apt and don’t have access to tools to try this myself. Thanks in advance for any information or advice y’all can provide

 

Welcome, it could be as simple as an o ring in a hose, could be the "Y" adapter is cracked and or could be a water pump. I would look for a mom and pop shop or a mobile mechanic. Year, make, model and engine would help. In the meanwhile if you are driving it, ensure your over flow tank is properly filled.

 

I have a 2018 F150 with the 3.5L Ecoboost.

It’s a pretty significant leak. Started three days ago and has gotten to the point when I drove to and from work, 10mi round trip staying between 45-55mph, I went through a full gallon of coolant when I got home. Engine temp was hotter than normal too

 

if you aren’t able to ID source of a leak that significant, then get it to a shop asap. See post 2.

 

Mobile mechanic I’ve been discussing it with seems to think it’s the lines after I told him it’s worse on starts/stops, particularly cold starts, and that once truck is up and running it’s not overheating or losing more coolant.

Apparently he believes this because of the pressurization of the system. Seems logical to me?

 

Lets be safe and not sorry! You could see if local auto parts has pressure system that they loan out. Apply a small amount of pressure and look for the leak.

 

Did not think to ask them if they have a pressure system. Thank you for the advice!

 

Worst case is turbo coolant jiffy fittings leak. Best repaired by changing fittings and coolant lines. Requires pulling turbos, and intake manifold for access behind the heads. <$500 in parts, butvery labor intensive.

Jiffy fitting leaks IME occur cold and seal when hot. Quantity of your leak is excessive for this problem. But all 3.5 will experience it sooner or later. ​​​​​​

Hope you got something else going on.

 

I would hose down the engine, run it or pressure test then look for leak source. I would pay special attention to hose connections and a leaking water pump out of its vent hole.

 

Clean the engine...put in some leak detector. Start at night and use the UV light to look for the leak.