Hey all I have a 2003 lexus LS430 that has 150K miles. . After noticing a sweet smell I checked under the hood and noticed a small puddle of orange coolant on top of the plastic cover thats on the bottom of the car. I was just wondering if this was a common problem or something more severe, if theres anyone out there who knows what gives please tell me what the culprits could possibly be before my wallet takes a beating from a mechanic. Thanks

 

Pictures may help isolate the issue.

there are some coolant t connectors in the engine that can get brittle and leak over time but can’t tell the location from the description.

 

Sorry its a bit hard to see, but its where that shiny spot is directly down

 

Removing the intake plenum above the radiator is quick and easy. Coolant leaks are usually fairly obvious to see. It appears to be pooling below the upper rad hose/radiator union but it doesn't necessarily mean it's leaking there. The plastic cover under the engine is not a level surface so the leak could potentially be anywhere nearby. Remove the intake plenum and you'll likely see it...

 

turns out it was the upper radiator hose. Had a hole in it on the bottom. Just barely bought mine so I’m a newbie at it for now haha. Thank you

 

Replace upper and lower radiator hoses along with constant compression hose clamps.

If unsure of when radiator was refreshed with new coolant, opportune time to do so.

To avoid problems, purchase original dealer parts for all.