I took my 2013 Hardtop S in to the dealership today for regular maintenance and they said they found that the oil filter housing is leaking coolant. They want to charge me $1200 to fix the leak by replace the oil filter housing gasket. I was also told that I should have this fixed ASAP because the coolant leak could cause the car to overheat and cause permanent damage. My normal mini shop is closed until Monday, but Monday morning I am supposed to drive to Vegas and back (about 8 hours round trip) for work. Am I safe to drive that long as long as I keep an eye on the temp gauge? Is there anything I can do myself over the weekend to repair or temporarily repair the problem to allow me to get to Vegas and back on Monday?

 

Can you rent a car for your trip?

By the time you see temp spike, it may be too late. The cost of the rental car will seem like a real bargain at that point.

Even if you catch it before damage, you could be stranded waiting for a tow for a long time.

 

If you have the tools on hand, I would suggest a leak-down test. (places the coolant system under pressure and allows you to monitor the amount of time it takes to equalize, or in the worst case you will find a puddle of coolant under the suspected leak).

...but if you don't have the ability I would agree with Minidogger and recommend you drop your car off at your shop and have them inspect the condition to verify it and use a rental car for your trip. I find it better to be safe then to be sorry.

Best of luck with your repairs.

Motor On!