Is my Nissan Micra's head gasket gone?

I have a 2003 Nissan Micra 1.2 and I am forever putting coolant in it. The person I bought it off said it was the radiator and replaced it but, I have since taken it to another person for them to tell me it's the head gasket and will cost me the price of a new engine if that is the case. I have no water oil mixing just the temp light coming on so I add coolant.

Any help appreciated

Laura Maher (Laois)

Jun 2015 Filed under: fault

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Expert answer

Hi Laura,

I'm afraid there doesn't have to be visible water/oil mixing for there to be a head gasket problem so that may well be the issue. Before going to get that work done you should park the car somewhere dry and clean underneath and let it run and keep an eye under the engine. Are there any visible water leaks? It could be as simple as that.

If not, bring the car to a garage to have the system pressure-tested etc. Don't delay though; if the head gasket is gone and you continue to drive it, you really could do a lot of damage.

Best of luck

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Adviser
@Shane_O_D