05 WRX Phantom Coolant Leak!?
 

Hello I-CLUBBERS:

My 05 WRX is at 34K bone stock. I recently did my first DIY oil change yesterday w/ no problems except for trying to get the damn plastic cover off (gave up). Drove my car to the store this morning and came home (after warming up), parked for about 15 mins., and then got back to leave. After backing up, I see a little puddle of clean coolant on the ground underneath. I say oh crap what is this, look underneath while idling and see nothing. I wipe up the little bit of coolant off the ground, and idle for a few looking for drips and overheating. I decide to drive on the freeway, and have no problems. Afterwards, I ran a few errands where I had to park for more than an hour after driving more than 10 miles, and see no puddle of coolant after parking.

My overflow tank has always been pretty low (only 1/4 full). I have not seen another puddle underneath the car, drove 35+ miles highway/street and have inspected again after parking w/ no signs of leaking underneath.

I have noticed that during the time of having this car (about a year), that it isn't uncommon for me to smell a little coolant after shutting the car off, and that my coolant is a little bit dirty. The dealer noticed the dirty coolant during the 30K service and offered a flush, and I refused.

Also, the oil did not show signs of coolant contamination when I drained it.

Anyone have any ideas, or know whether I may have a blown/defective head gasket???

Thanks for the help...I've tried searches and don't see any threads that apply to this occurence.