Merry Christmas All!

I have a 1993 190E 2.3L. It has been having this slow coolant leak for two weeks now, and had just topped it up twice. I finally got a chance to look under the hood and watch for leaks.

From the passenger's side, I can see an open black hose approximately 3/4 inches in diameter, pointing down from the engine (haven't gotten under the car yet), behind the alternator. It only seems to leak when the engine is running, so I am not seeing coolant loss when the car sits.

I can't get an appointment until after Christmas, but I was wondering if anyone knows what this hose is and where the coolant may be originating from?

Thanks in advance for your input. Earnest

If sound like a leak from the coolant return hose. Return to the radiator. Sometimes, the leak is in the radiator and the coolant is leaking down to the hose. Make sure the hose clamps are tight. If that doesn't solve it, replace the hose and the clamps. then check again. I am sure parts shop has this part.

good luck

rabbit gave you some good advice. Finding the leak is usually the most difficult part of repairing the leak. Since you have found it, the temporary fix will probably be tightening the clamps. If that fixes it, don't be happy to let it go at that. Inspect the hose carefully for cracks, especially near the clamps, and especially on the engine side where it sees the most heat. If there are any doubts whatever, replace the hose. It's the cheapest insurance you could have against a hose failure causing an overheat, possibly destroying your engine.

The good news here is that you are keeping an eye on things. If you're not wearing out the hood hinges looking for things going bad, you're asking for trouble. So, wear those hood hinges.

Good luck,