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Low Coolant Warning & Puddle Under 2022 Colorado - Where's the Leak?

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Rachel A. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:38 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Chevrolet Colorado LT

Hey everyone,

I'm having an issue with my 2022 Chevrolet Colorado LT, which has the 3.6L V6 engine and only about 30,000 miles on it. Recently, I got a 'Low Coolant' warning on my dash, and I've noticed a small puddle of greenish-orange fluid under the front of the truck after it's been parked for a while. The coolant reservoir is definitely low.

I've tried looking around the engine bay, but I can't pinpoint the exact source of the leak. It seems to be coming from somewhere on the passenger side. Are there any common leak points on these newer Colorado models that I should check first? I want to try and identify it before taking it in for service.

Any advice on where to look or what to check would be super helpful!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 2:38 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A low coolant warning combined with a puddle of greenish-orange fluid under your 2022 Chevrolet Colorado LT (3.6L V6) at 30,000 miles indicates an active coolant leak. While newer vehicles shouldn't typically have leaks at this mileage, it's not unheard of. The greenish-orange color suggests it's likely Dex-Cool, the factory-fill coolant.

Common leak points on the 3.6L V6 and Colorado platform include:

  1. Water Pump: Located on the front of the engine, often on the passenger side. Look for crusty coolant residue or drips directly below it.
  2. Thermostat Housing: This plastic housing can crack or its gasket can fail. It's usually near the front of the engine, often where the upper radiator hose connects.
  3. Radiator End Tanks: The plastic end tanks of the radiator are prone to cracking, especially where they meet the aluminum core. Check the top and bottom edges of the radiator.
  4. Hoses and Clamps: Inspect all coolant hoses (radiator hoses, heater hoses) for cracks, swelling, or loose clamps. Pay close attention to the connections.
  5. Heater Core Hoses/Connections: These run into the firewall on the passenger side. While less common for external puddles, they can leak.
  6. Coolant Reservoir/Cap: Check the reservoir itself for cracks and ensure the cap is sealing properly.

Diagnostic Steps:

  • Pressure Test: A cooling system pressure tester is the most effective way to find leaks. You can rent one from most auto parts stores. Pump the system to its specified pressure (usually around 15-18 psi) and then look for drips.
  • UV Dye: Add UV dye to the coolant, run the engine for a bit, then use a UV light to find the leak. This is great for elusive leaks.

Causes of a coolant leak:

  • Degraded or faulty hose clamps.
  • Cracked plastic components (thermostat housing, radiator end tanks).
  • Worn water pump seal/bearing.
  • Damage from road debris (radiator).

When to see a shop:

  • If you cannot locate the leak despite thorough inspection and testing.
  • If the leak appears to be from a complex area like the engine block, cylinder head, or heater core (which often requires significant dashboard disassembly).
  • If the leak is severe and causes rapid coolant loss, as driving with low coolant can lead to engine overheating and severe damage.
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