I am a newbie and a car novice. Have 1995 940 Volvo Turbo. Battery has needed replacing 2 times in past year. Traced it to low coolant level causing fan to run draining the battery. Mechanic said the radiator had a leak. He replaced radiator. Didn't fix problem. Said radiator was 'faulty' got another new radiator. Same problem. Coolant will not 'leak' for weeks and then after about 2-3 weeks, big puddle appears under car. Once puddle appears, it's lights out, car generally will only crank for a day or two more, even if I top off coolant. Last time, he replaced a few hoses as well (not sure which ones). Car has never overheated, as I only drive a few miles each day to work and back. THANKS.

 

Paisano...is your mechanic a family friend? A trusted servant who has served your family for decades? If not, I would consider a second opinion. Volvo did some weird stuff around 94-95 as far as installing e-fans...but I don't believe the factory set up ran when the car was off...at all. Someone correct me if I'm wrong. So...if the e-fan only comes on while driving, the alternator should easily take care of the current demand of the fan. Have you heard the fan running with the engine off? Does he say he hears the fan when the motor's off? I know they altered the instrument cluster in the 9's...do you have a volt gauge in there? Cuz it sounds to me as if you either have a bad alternator or a constant volt draw that your mechanic can't/won't find. Infrequent, sporadic elimination of coolant is often the water pump about to begin leaking in earnest. I have a difficult time believing his diagnosis. It could be that way, I guess. It's obvious he isn't too strong in the diagnostic portion of his field. Maybe he just isn't able to re-create the symptoms in the shop...but if the fan doesn't run w/ the engine off, I just don't see it. My 84 760 had a 94 efan and a thermocouple probe into the radiator. I had it wired through a relay direct to the battery. In the summer, after a hard run, it might cycle 4-6 times w/ the motor off. Never caused anything to die.

 

If it's not the radiator leaking, check for leaking around the water pump and hoses.

 

A - you're right, not too strong in the diagnosis field
B - thanks for the good ideas - these make a lot more sense to my little brain
C - not a trusted family friend my any means... just close to my house and when the car won't start, it's nice to not have to drive too far.... obviously a mistake.