The coolent level on my W reg vauxhall astra requires regular topping up, wot steps could I take to remedy the problem myself, (other then to take it to a mechanic)??

Robin Banks, February 2005

you got a radiator leak, when you car is parked checked for any leaks, if there are leaks then you need a liquid called Radweld, it only costs a about £4, pour that in to the coolant after reading the instructions, that should stop any leaks.

mohammed, April 2005

Check all around the radiator for leaks (you will see like a white crystal deposit when the coolant dries) especially at the point where the top and bottom hose join the radiator and check hoses for bulges and splits. without using a mechanic, you wont be able to check if the radiator cap or header tank cap is holding its pressure so go to a car parts place e.g partco and ask for a new one..couple of quid at the most. check around both footwells, and if either one is wet ( right up behind the centre console which is where the stereo goes, cigarette lighter etc etc etc), that would mean the heater matrix is leaking, or if worse comes to worse, you have a head gasket problem!

Sean, February 2005