So like one week of ownership, thought my biggest problems was getting music sorted and some power for road trip. Seems like I was wrong.

Went on a short trip today. Engine temp light came on. 5 mins back home and see leak in driveway. Coolant up to the pipe in the reservoir. Can't see a leak, can see a fresh splash on the under tray maybe slightly right of centre.

Look at coolant diagram, there's so many points of failure. Any advice for troubleshooting appreciated. Keeping in mind that most work on car that is mechanical is out of my comfort zone? Do I top up with water and take to a garage?

Making this sound. (If helpful)

Ive got like 2 weeks until I'm meant to be on a road trip.

Warning light after 5 minutes suggest the coolant was low when last driven or more likely it has been leaking while standing.

As time is critical, I suggest you ask a garage to presure test your system. Take their advice on topping up as distance to the garage is important.

I know from my experience that a failed water pump can go from no obvious leak to loosing a large volume of coolant in less than 5 miles on a summers day.

I agree top up to max and monitor on way to garage. Its a lot easier to find a leak when the cars on a lift. I would just use water to top up and once leak has been found get the garage to do a coolant change as it may have been topped up with water for a while if the leak is old and antifreeze will have become diluted. Remember to take extra water with you and watch the temp. If it gets really hot let it cool down before topping up. Not a good idea to add cold water to a very hot engine.

Alasdair

Thanks all. Just to update. I was right the leak was a bit right of centre, which is where the secondary/electric pump is on the VRS. Replaced and all fine now.