My 98 Honda Civic is leaking antifreeze. The man at the oil change place said that I need a new head gasket. But when I look at the engine with the motor running, I see that the fluid is dripping from something I believe is called the water outlet cover. This is on the far left side of the motor where the top radiator hose connects. Can I safely assume that the water outlet gasket is truly the problem and is a cheaper fix?
Forget the guy at the oil change place. You can see the leak? Take it to a real mechanic, an independent shop with good Honda knowledge. Ask them for a fix and an estimate of the cost.
The gooseneck, aka thermostat housing or as you called it water outlet cover, had a bleed valve in it. Maybe it is loose?
I found this picture. I think I’ll try to fix it myself with some RTV sealer.