FAULTBASE
Error CodesASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/GMC/Sierra/T1XX (2019-Present)/how to diagnose a coolant leak in GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present)?

how to diagnose a coolant leak in GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present)?

GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present)

Error Codes
Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
574 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix coolant leaks in GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-present). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component
Cooling System
Estimated Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before opening the radiator or coolant reservoir to avoid burns.
  • ⚠Always wear safety goggles and gloves when handling coolant, as it can be harmful if ingested or comes in contact with skin.

Symptoms

  • •Coolant warning light illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Visible coolant puddles or stains under the vehicle
  • •Sweet smell of coolant in the engine compartment or cabin
  • •Engine temperature gauge reading higher than normal
  • •Steam or vapor coming from the engine area
  • •Low coolant level in the reservoir

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Examine the engine bay and undercarriage for any visible signs of coolant leakage.
  2. 2Inspect the coolant reservoir for cracks or leaks and ensure that the coolant level is adequate.
  3. 3Perform a cooling system pressure test using a coolant pressure tester to identify leaks.
  4. 4Check all hoses, clamps, and connections for wear, damage, or looseness.
  5. 5Inspect the water pump for signs of leakage, such as coolant accumulation around the pump area.
  6. 6Inspect the heater core for leaks, especially if there's a sweet smell inside the cabin or wet carpets.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Tools Required:
    • Coolant pressure tester
    • Socket set
    • Screwdriver set
    • Drain pan

2. Identify and Repair Leaks

  • Sub-step 1: If leaks are found during the visual inspection, mark their locations for repair.
  • Sub-step 2: For cracked hoses, replace with new hoses by loosening the clamps and removing the damaged hose.
  • Sub-step 3: If the coolant reservoir is cracked, remove it by disconnecting the hoses and electrical connectors, then install a new reservoir.
  • Sub-step 4: For a leaking water pump, drain the coolant, remove the pump (usually involves removing bolts and disconnecting hoses), and replace it with a new pump.
  • Sub-step 5: If the heater core is leaking, it may require significant disassembly of the dashboard to access; replace the heater core as necessary.

3. Refill and Bleed Cooling System

  • Sub-step 1: After repairs, refill the cooling system with the appropriate type of coolant (typically GM Dex-Cool).
  • Sub-step 2: Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature while keeping an eye on the coolant level.
  • Sub-step 3: Bleed any air from the system using the bleed valve (if equipped) or by running the engine with the radiator cap off.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • ✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • ✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • ✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • •Coolant pressure tester
  • •Socket set
  • •Screwdriver set
  • •Drain pan

Parts Required

  • •Replacement hoses (if damaged)
  • •Coolant reservoir (if cracked)
  • •Water pump (if leaking)
  • •Heater core (if leaking)

Additional Information

Affected Component
Cooling System
Estimated Time
2-4 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
high
Tools Required
4 items
Parts Required
4 items

Related Faults

  1. how to fix GMC Sierra transmission jerking when shifting

    Learn how to diagnose and fix transmission jerking in GMC Sierra. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Transmission6 symptoms
  2. GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present) brake pedal goes to floor

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the brake pedal going to the floor in GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Brakes5 symptoms
  3. my GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present) has a rough idle when cold, what could be wrong?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rough idle issues in GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Engine5 symptoms
  4. my GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present) has a popping noise when turning, what could it be?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix popping noise when turning in GMC Sierra T1XX. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Suspension5 symptoms
  5. how to reset the oil life indicator in GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present)?

    Learn how to reset the oil life indicator in GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present) after an oil change. Step-by-step guide for accurate oil life tracking.

    Electrical3 symptoms
  6. how to troubleshoot GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present) hard starting issues?

    Learn how to troubleshoot hard starting issues in GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present). Step-by-step diagnostic and repair instructions included.

    Electrical6 symptoms

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation