UK Car Repair: M Reg Ford Fiesta - water going down rapidly, ford fiesta, radiator cap

Question
Hi

I have an M Reg 1300 Ford Fiesta and my water level is rapidly decreasing.  I filled it above maximum level at the weekend and after driving on the Motorway (68 miles return journey) this morning, it is gone down below the minimum level.  Whilst I was stuck in a tailback this morning for over 20 minutes, it started to overheat and smoke was coming out of the engine for a few moments.

Please can you advise what it might be?

Sarah Croft

Answer
You have to determine where the water is escaping from.  It may be just a bad radiator cap, a loose fitting etc.  Check the engine oil to see if there is any sign of water contamination- if so it will be a creamy colour. Is the electric fan working? you should be able to hear it. It might be best to have a garage pressure test the system if all looks well.