Leak Somewhere

[foreverpools]

i have a vauxhall vectra 54 plate,i noticed a wet patch under the car so got a mechanic who i know to have a look who said he couldnt see were the wetness was coming from,he has now been twice as the wet patch is growing but he is still adamant there is nothing wrong,so why this wet patch? ive got a trip to london coming up from the north east so im very concerned about were this patch is coming from

[paul1763]

If it is a coolant leek, I would've thought it will be dripping all the time, are you having to top up with coolant occasionally? If you're using air con each time you notice the wet patch this is quite normal and you're got nothing to worry about

[paul1763]

Should've added you need to go to a garage if you're losing/topping up coolant

[bhg481]

Stick your finger on he puddle and have a sniff; antifreeze will have a distinctive smell. If it doesn't smell it's probably condensation off the air-con as paul suggests. If it's antifreeze it could be the pressure cap leaking - a cheap thing to replace.

[malagabob]

Or the water pump.

[bhg481]

If you've had the cam belt replaced recently malagabob is probably on to a winner with that suggestion. If you haven't and it turns out to be the water pump see about getting the cam belt replaced at the same time to save long-term labour costs.

[Hopkirk]

I wouldn't worry until it becomes closer to a flood.

A damp patch that isn't worrying a mechanic sounds very minor.

[foreverpools]

thanks for all your replies.yes i have recently had the cam belt changed with water pump.no im not having to fill the coolant up.

[bhg481]

The best time to look for leaks is when the engine is hot and the cooling system is under pressure. If you friend has been looking when the engine is cold the leak may not show as the leaking will have stopped and any water on the engine will have evaporated off.
Did you do the sniff test?