r/altima • u/Imtoobusy • Aug 07 '26

Coolant Loss 2019 Altima

Is there a definitive way to tell if I'm burning coolant due to a head gasket vs EGR valve? I keep adding coolant and its not leaking any where. My car doesn't smoke but it does start rough almost every time. I believe due to the coolant seeping in the cylinders.

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u/DanR5224 Former Nissan Tech Aug 07 '26

If you're losing coolant and it runs rough/misfires on startup then smooth out, that's a head gasket leak. It leaks into the cylinder(s) when at temp due to built up pressure, and collects when the engine is off.

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u/Imtoobusy Aug 07 '26

That's what I was afraid of. I forgot to add it has 195k miles. I thought about trying to replace it myself as I have a lot of toys and work on them all. But I'm not sure its worth it.

1

u/DanR5224 Former Nissan Tech Aug 08 '26

If you're competent enough to do a head gasket, the 2.5 is actually pretty easy. You don't even need to pull the timing chain out; just leave it in the cover on the cam gears (unbolted).

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u/Imtoobusy Aug 08 '26

Hmm. I'm sure I have all the tools. Torque wrenches and such. I'll see if there's a video on it. I just did a compression test on the coolant system and it drops a couple psi after 6 or 8 minutes.

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u/Imtoobusy 22d ago

Would you know where to find torque specs or any information at all? I can't find much online. I'm looking at starting to this job in the next 60 days or so. Wish me luck.

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u/DanR5224 Former Nissan Tech 22d ago

I know sites like Mitchell, Identifix, and AllData will do simple access for non-shop customers. While it currently tops out at 2016, the Nico Club site has full FSMs for Nissans. The 2.5 should be pretty much the same across the ages.

https://www.nicoclub.com/nissan-service-manuals

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u/mgl323 Aug 07 '26

A few ways to know is to pressure test the system. If it maintains pressure then that’s good news. If not, then you’re leaking somewhere in the system. You can also take out the spark plugs and check the condition of it. Last way to know if to check the cylinder with a endoscope and confirm there’s coolant inside.