Come along as I fix a few coolant leaks on a customers Chevy Cruze with the big 1.4. It is leaking from the coolant surge tank as well as the water outlet on the left side of the head. Both are easy fixes.
-Enjoy!
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97 thoughts on “Coolant leaking chevy cruze”
  1. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars shay stern says:

    no funnel, impressive

  2. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Chris Lemaster says:

    These things were shitboxes like the Vega and Cobalt

  3. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars OrbPlasmatic says:

    Great video. Pulled one in and fogged the entire shop with oil vapor. PCV valve in the intake failed and the valve in the breather near the turbo. Thanks GM for making those non replaceable. Plastic water housing cracked, long enough that the turbo also cracked. GM is following the BMW model of self destructing plastic. Plenty of DIYers in the tuning community have come up with solutions to their crappy design.

  4. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ron McEwen says:

    My mom was the same. When I was 16, she wanted me to hold still so she could slap me. Nope. Couldn't do it. I don't remember what I did to aggravate her, but I remember that I didn't feel guilty about anything.

  5. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Posh panda says:

    sad You only have GM, a company without a soul….. 😟🥺😩

  6. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jeff Kottwitz says:

    I love my snap on 1/4 drive cordless ratchet, but still looking for a good 3/8

  7. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars tv says:

    Good stuff SMA as always Enjoying dinner with some good work and a MOM spoon story thanks

  8. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Chris Scot says:

    Help me understand why the plastic thermostat housing and thermostat is all original on My 2007 Honda CRV with no leaks, and all the other plastic crap made in North America leaks?

  9. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Nate Tallman says:

    The new YouTube feature of pinching to zoom on videos is really great for your videos. I can zoom in on the work area and get a great view.

  10. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ralph Whakinfus says:

    No story that those plastic housings on the left side of that 1.4 are junk I've replaced no less than 3 I think they should be made of aluminum they would hold up better that plastic just isn't durable enough for that particular part.

  11. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars mosiah 319 says:

    " torque it to spec…if you lack self-control, that is"
    Made me laugh out loud, all by myself!!

  12. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars James Wood says:

    When mom yelled and used your middle name you new it was not going to be good.

  13. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars LadyAnuB says:

    So the turbo video would've been full of F-bombs? I don't mind beeping out the good words as long as I understand which word it was. 😅

  14. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Stephen Bullock says:

    Good repair as always

  15. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ethan Johnson says:

    Can maybe agree that cordless ratchets aren't intended to break a nut/bolt loose purely through the electrical side but more appropriately for unwinding the long threaded buggers that are in a tight recessed area?! I like cordless tools for there mobility.

  16. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Craig D says:

    I rarely comment on your videos until today. We must of had parallel childhood like many of us. wait till your father gets until your father gets wait till your father gets home. Thank you, Eric you really took me back.

  17. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jim Bright says:

    I got a 2015 Cruze with the big block 1.4 😂 and I keep smelling coolant after I drive it but not seeing any leaks. I saw that the thermostat housing was all wet so I replaced that and found that the old one was actually broken inside and the thermostat came out in 4 pieces when I took it apart but i still smell coolant. I’m gonna rent the tool and pressure test it. I did replace the coolant reservoir, both heater hoses, the water outlet on the head for the upper radiator hose, and I replaced the vent tube. I noticed that there’s a hose that runs from the thermostat housing behind the turbo and over to the water neck. I’m wondering if there’s a leak behind the turbo and it’s just dripping onto the hot exhaust and burning off.

  18. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars James of all things says:

    Those cars are absolute garbage. She'd be better off buying a 90s corolla from TX and shipping it up there. Prob last twice as long.

  19. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Diesel FIX'R says:

    I personally own 2 snap on 3/8 battery ratchets and had no issues plenty of power for what it is have dropped it oil, diesel and falling off a semi trailer 13 feet . My 1st one last 5 hard years until the cam was slipping so bad it wouldn't turn the socket. I bought the 2nd ratchet while my 1ft one was getting rebuild. Took 8 months right in the covid time lack of parts. I recommend it.

  20. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars The Castros says:

    "Daddy is gona kill Ralphy"

  21. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Gary Van Rheenen says:

    We used to get threatened with a slap around the ears, they never did it, it was a Dutch saying, folks must have gotten it from their parents.

  22. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars The Castros says:

    So, how does the German part talk to the Korean plastic container?

  23. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars TENN-DEE says:

    Gm coolant reservoirs must be common had to do one two weeks ago on a malibu

  24. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Billy Bo Baggins says:

    I’m one of the too death cordless ratchet guys haha great video

  25. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Katya5cat says:

    Funny as kids our mom was the one to fear. Get her mad she didn't waste time we got the switch. She would make us go out and get one and it better not break when she used it. Ah those were the days.

  26. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Alexander Cahoulan says:

    dude a chevy? No way lol

  27. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars G Zuk says:

    God Bless the Moms and Dads that put up with us until we were old enough to know how to not get caught.

  28. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Clint Price says:

    Years ago my friends mother went to whack him with the wooden spoon and he grabbed her hand to stop her. He said Ma I’m a person not an animal and it hurts and she started crying. She said Mike I’m not crying because of what you did, I’m crying because of what your father is going to do to you when I tell him what you did.
    Mike said he was sitting on the porch terrified of what was going to happen when his father got home but he came home, saw the look on his face and asked what did you do? So he told him and just said go apologize to your mother and don’t do that again.
    He’s now almost 60 and the stories he tells of growing up as one of three boys is hilarious.
    Eric, I bet your Mom was a great lady.

  29. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mailman Joe says:

    A chevy cruze leaking coolant? Imagine that!

  30. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Miro says:

    Funny. I used to own 1.4T Cruze and those were also two locations where i found coolant leak. Must be common failure points

  31. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Scott Hill says:

    Mom always waited until my Dad finished his dinner, then she dropped the hammer. Boy go wait in your room that I paid for, I'll be back to straighten you out in a minute. Whopped my ass straight, an I had it coming everytime.

  32. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Alan Nicholls says:

    Amazing that here in Australia my Holden Cruze had the exact same issues. Once the car was 5yr old I moved it on

  33. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars deepsquat600 says:

    Got to agree with most of your cordless tool comments but for those of us who live in an apartment they are priceless absolutely priceless but yes for the same money I spent for my Milwaukee ratchet that I agree probably wouldn't last a year in a shop you could buy a air ratchet and it'll probably last a decade same with my Milwaukee impact half inch drive if I had to use it everyday I think I ended up going broke spend a hundred $59 on an Arctic air or Ingersoll Rand and don't spend the money again for another 10 years

  34. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mel Meter says:

    good stuff!! thanks for the parenting discussion also…….spare the rod and spoil the child

  35. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Craig Johnson says:

    Good video w/a dose of GM reality✓ I have sworn off them myself after seeing 2 yr. old Malibu's and Cruise's more sitting along the highway and on the dustpans! Before I retired. I only have trust in my :'69&'70 motors and of course my 13 FJ lol.

  36. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars BaddaBingBaddaBoom says:

    I took a roadtrip across the country last summer and by far the most common vehicle to see broken down on the side of the highway was a Chevy Cruze or Cobalt

  37. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jim Vet says:

    good job, were getting our first freeze of the year tonight / at the AM.
    ugh .

  38. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Albert C says:

    My dad has had nothing but problems with his Cruze. One issue was an oil leak. Tightening the bolts/nuts on the oil pan solved the issue. Convinced all domestic is just trash now, sadly.

  39. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Richard S says:

    I understand the dealing with the public ,I sell auto parts and when and when I ask them year ,make , model and the response is man I don't know I just drive he car . I don't if I should laugh or shake my head , that's been the answer on more than one occasion or I need an alternator for a small blue car… and the one I like to have fun with is when someone is looking for a cadilac converter ,(I'll say well seems like a nice f-150,or what ever vehicle its for) but lets see what have😄😄😄.

  40. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars BTC909 says:

    Chevy BMW engine.

  41. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Rafi Lader says:

    Loving your monologs,very.

  42. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Donald Wilson says:

    Yes they are crap engines. If you can get 100k out of them before they need major work or just die. Friend just put on second turbo and yesterday replaced same part you did. Has 108k and change.

  43. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars William T. Musil says:

    Hiya Eric

  44. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Adel Jeffrey says:

    Chevy Crunch it should named after all this aged plastic.

  45. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Billy Ray Valentine says:

    How about the TV show 'wait till your father gets home ' , aired right after all in the family..? Our parents were cut from the same cloth pardner.

  46. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars MarkSD56 says:

    Sounds like your mother didn’t work. Both my parents left for work before we went to the bus stop. They called and exchanged notes around mid day though. Punishments we e acted on weekends.

  47. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Rick Harper says:

    My mother tore me up and when dad got home if she thought she didn't get the point across dad got me. I don't remember to many dance lessons!! lol

  48. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Sdmoparman in SD says:

    What a cheeeeevy turd

  49. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Endall says:

    I think you forgot "kids are to be seen not heard". My parents were big on that one and the ones you talked about LOL. I made the mistake ONCE when mom went to bust my ass I reached up and stopped her. I'm lucky to be here to tell the tell as you well know. I was thinking about it and don't remember what I had even done? Good times I think?

  50. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars MarkSD56 says:

    I had to replace a coolant bottle in my 2001 Porsche 911 996 C4 and to do that you need to drop the engine/trans; it was an expensive bottle. Same with the alternator. Never again

  51. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Dr. Shorty says:

    Thanks for the lesson Eric

  52. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Utah York says:

    "Other than that, these are great engines….. just kiddin', they're crap." You listed almost everything that needs maintenance in the engine compartment. Nice.

  53. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Snap-On Auto Tech says:

    Those new pliars are best needle nose. I did a LOF on one, noted Advise Cust the bottle was low / empty rec new cap (I think it was damaged) diag for cooling system leaks. Which they declined all. 72 hours later I get pulled into the office to get chewed out cause of this car. Customer claims driving on the freeway car overheated because tech did not put the cap back on as gushing coolant / steam out everywhere incld when hood closed. Customer says I owe him a new car, pay the tow, etc I was guilty till I HAD to prove myself innocent. Told boss come with to inspect said car. Before I popped the hood I asked the boss that the customer is blaming me for everything, that coolant gushing / geyser ? Yup.

    I open the hood and the cap is on the bottle ()Boss looks confused, no evidence of a geyser as the hood pad would of been soaked and smell of coolant. Called customer and asked if he replaced the cap, and wash the engine bay? NOPE

    I drop the wrench (mic) and walked off..

  54. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars SLVRFOX88 says:

    I had a Cruze 1.4 I replaced the same thing because they cracked

  55. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ron Geci says:

    My mom never said “ wait until your dad gets home “…My mom was 5’2” of 100% dynamite when she was mad… Trust me she feared no one….Buy hey that was my mom…

  56. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jay Judd says:

    Mr. O you make the plastic fit. Glad you took us along again. Would love to know a car that could last till it’s paid off as the payment are getting into 6 years and them some .

  57. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jerome Wink says:

    Stoop to new time low working on a disposable Suzuki. New worst car we see you work on.

  58. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Starcarrier says:

    That’s hilarious. My mom did the same thing to me, but the wooden spoon broke! Then she yelled “you broke my spoon!” Then we both began to laugh so hard. We told my kids the story when we visited for the holidays and they laughed. God bless Mom and Dad. Thanks for the memory old buddy.

  59. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars sptt 144 says:

    That thar engine sounds like there's no oil in it. Is that normal for the K R U Z Chevrolet?

  60. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars MB says:

    Cant lie I clicked because the thumbnail said "The Big 1.4" lol

  61. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Tony Purser says:

    You're so 200% right I remember them days too I love my mother God bless

  62. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Barre Butts says:

    So is your mom coming on the channel for a rebuttal? Or maybe some other stories?

  63. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Joshua Elkins says:

    Hello from Colorado. I just bought that same set of adjustable needle nose you’re using about a month ago, They are the best. 23 year Toyota tech and I love your videos.

  64. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars ProJanitor says:

    Same with Chevy sonic; over the course of the past five years, we’ve had to replace every cooling system component. Radiator, reservoir, outlet, thermostat, pump etc

  65. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Landon Thompson says:

    I recently worked the same kind of car with the exact engine. I had to replace the old valve cover with the updated one because of the vacuum leak but after replacing the cover I opened a huge can of worms, the turbo was shot due to the oil supply line being fully clogged from what I believe to be a real piss poor design since the oil supply line runs behind the exhaust and the block, creating a horrible place to cook the oil plus the potential for failure increases from the customer's lack of proper maintenance too. After the repairs it ran as good as the poor bastard could possibly be, I'm sure the cat will be the next thing to go bad and I done have a game plan for that.

  66. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars devildog917 says:

    If I ever make it to New York I'm going to make an appointment just so I can meet you in real life. I enjoy your channel.

  67. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Greg Johnson says:

    What's the part numbers for the pliers and the scraper?

  68. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ben Smith says:

    The ol’ EcoCrap motor. GM special.

  69. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Leon B says:

    Tsk, Tsk, Tsk, sounds like you dropped an f-word in the beginning of the video…

  70. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Craig Smith says:

    Nephew works for GM. Wouldn't let his mom buy a Cruze.

  71. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Latarian HoodRat says:

    You got off easy! In Canada in the late 70s mom would go to MacLeod's Hardware and buy a HEAT FOR THE SEAT paddle…. OMG that stung like a sumbitch.

  72. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars G S says:

    Man it feels like a while since we got a good story with a repair video. Thx for sharing and repairing

  73. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Terence Hawkes says:

    Very funny comments about waiting till your dad gets home. I can sure relate!

  74. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars John Petersen says:

    Just helped a buddy of mine with the same repair. Been watching your videos for quite a while now and all your tips and advice over the years made it a straight forward repair. Your right on this one, I could do it!

  75. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars A Physics Professor says:

    Oh, no. It's one of GMs drop box cars.

  76. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Frankish says:

    A Cruze leaking coolant? Who would have thought? I don't think mine has ever stopped leaking! What a POS this car is.. I just bought a Honda Passport.. No more Chevvys thats for darn sure!

  77. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Nodak81 says:

    Very few GM vehicles I'd buy these days. Just so crappy. The best ones are the Trailblazer and Buick Encore GX which are built in Korea and fairly decent.

  78. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Neil says:

    Hey, any update on Mrs."O"? I have been thinking and praying for you guys since you went to NYC for her procedure?

  79. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Crazmaro says:

    Quote a head gasket because that is next on the list.

  80. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Bearded Veteran says:

    🎵Out in the country past the city limits sign
    Where there's a honky tonk near the County line
    The joint starts jumpin' every night when the sun goes down
    They got whiskey women, music, and smoke
    It's where all the cowboy folk go to boot scootin' boogie
    I got a good job, I work hard for my money
    When it's quittin' time, I hit the door runnin'
    I fire up my pickup truck and let the horses run
    I go flyin' down that highway to that hide a way
    Stuck out in the woods to do the boot scootin' boogie
    Yeah, heel toe, docie doe, come on, baby, let's go, boot scootin'
    Oh, Cadillac, Black Jack, baby meet me outback we're gonna boogie
    Oh, get down turn around go to town boot scootin' boogie
    The bartender asks me, say, "Son what'll it be"
    I want a shot at that redhead yonder lookin' at me
    The dance floors hoppin', and it's hotter than the Fourth of July
    I see outlaws inlaws crooks and straights
    All out makin' it shake doin' the boot scootin' boogie
    Yeah, heel toe docie doe come on baby let's go boot scootin'
    Oh, Cadillac, Black Jack, baby meet me outback we're gonna boogie
    Get down turn around go to town boot scootin' boogie
    Oh, heel toe docie doe come on baby let's go boot scootin'
    Yeah, Cadillac, Black Jack baby meet me outback we're gonna boogie
    Yeah, get down turn around go to town boot scootin' boogie
    I say get down turn around go to town boot scootin' boogie
    Oh, get down turn around go to town boot scootin' boogie🎵

  81. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars funkyzero says:

    Dang man, I wish you had that turbo job on video. I'm fixin to do that job on my kids car when the weather is right.

  82. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Hack says:

    Vote, Vote, no career politicians. we need new shoes in the house.

  83. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Blacksheep says:

    Isn’t the Chevy Crud basically a rebadged Daewoo.

  84. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Stanley Knight says:

    Eric I too love watching hoof trimming videos The Hoof GP and Nate the Hoof Guy

  85. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Dean Sapp says:

    I think Eric just doubled the value of that POS

  86. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Greg Scott says:

    Did we have the same mother?

  87. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Samantha Lightfoot says:

    The mothers curse! 😂

  88. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jamy Reignier-Ruel says:

    I'd love a family update on your other channel. What everyone's up to and such
    Take care god bless

  89. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars El Cheapo says:

    Eric's wooden spoon story brought back memories…One day my mom was beating me with the wooden spoon. (I also deserved it). I too, laughed. Then the spoon broke on my behind and I laughed even harder. Then mom was really mad. 🤣

  90. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Todd Dubberly says:

    These videos make me never want to own GM or Mopar products ever again.

  91. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Dependable Auto Truck says:

    i just put on my first water pump gmc terrain with 2.4 driven off of timing chain it was so fun

  92. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars superwolf28 says:

    You’d be better off talking politics.

  93. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars justsomeguytoyou says:

    It's common to find the words "made in Korea" on GM parts today—good 'ol Daewoo quality. I'll never get used to the clackety clack sound of today's direct injection lol

  94. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars D B says:

    Cool, a bit of O history. Been there. Loved it. Thanks for sharing.

  95. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars miklemikemuster says:

    What a shitty sounding engine, holy crap.

  96. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Random Will says:

    A turbo job pissing off a tech? Absurd. That's always gravy. Nothing wrong ever happens.

  97. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars WolfeAdventures says:

    Awesome video. How long do you let it burp off the trapped air before putting the cap back on?

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