Hello All,
My recently purchased 760 was flushed and filled last week. Prior to that the coolant level was low. Now with the level topped up it is misting inside the car (with slight coolant smell), especially with the heat turned up. I have deduced that it is likely the heater core. Any thoughts? could it be something more simple? is it dangerous (e.g. coolant under pressure into the passenger compartment)? how about using Stops Leaks, that everyone hates? :)

Secondly, if I forego the replacement and just connect the two heater hoses, aside from the loss of heat, are there any problems to look out for?

Lastly, does the heater core contain alot of fluid? is it veined like a radiator? After bypassing, do I need to drain it or just let it evapourate?

ok, really lastly, what can I expect to pay for a replacement core- just the part and also a fair price installed?
Thanks in advance

I have had good luck using stop leak. If I were you I would try it. After all it only costs a few dollars.

I'd determine just what, if anything is leaking. It could be a bad hose, a loose hose clamp or some other less serious plumbing problem. It may only require a simple fix. If it is the core and you want to temporarily by pass it, that should not present any major problems (w/the exception, of course, of no heat). There's enough coolant in the core to require draining. I'd not worry about any serious dangers associated with a cabin coolant leak. They are more of a mess than a danger. Low coolant levels and over heating, however, can be the death of an engine. So get this tracked down and repaired as soon as possible.

Thanks for the info.

I located the heater core, and I don't even want to get started dismantling the car to get at it.

As an even quicker fix, and as the car is 16 years old, what about the pros and cons of Stops Leaks?

The way its looking is;
1. Bypass and no heat or
2. Stops Leaks

thanks again