I'm not really sure if applicable or not, but any opinions welcomed. I'm not sure if it's been taken care of or not, and I can't get in touch to confirm or deny....
My thought is what if this was the root of the issue??? I know she said it had been leaking, albeit slowly.... but unsure of the source. Seems probable though.
# 14371B: Special Coverage Adjustment - Engine Coolant Leak from Water Pump - (Jan 27, 2015)
Subject: 14371B - Special Coverage Adjustment - Engine Coolant Leak from the Water Pump
Models: 2011-2014 Chevrolet Cruze
2012-2014 Chevrolet Sonic
With 1.4L Engine (RPO LUJ or LUV)
The Warranty Transaction Information section has been revised to show the labor time breakdown for vehicles still covered under warranty. Please discard all copies of bulletin 14371A.
Condition
Some 2011-2014 model year Chevrolet Cruze vehicles and some 2012-2014 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles with the 1.4L engine may have an engine coolant leak from the water pump. The pump may leak from the weep reservoir or from the water pump shaft seal, leading to a drip of coolant onto the engine or onto the ground. Over time, the loss of coolant will reduce cooling performance and eventually could lead to engine overheating. If this condition is not corrected, the "Service Engine" indicator light may come on, an "Engine Hot, AC Off" message may appear, a chime may sound, and the engine power may be reduced.
Special Coverage Adjustment
This special coverage covers the condition described above for a period of 10 years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km), whichever occurs first, from the date the vehicle was originally placed in service, regardless of ownership.
Dealers are to replace the water pump if it is leaking. The repairs will be made at no charge to the customer.
For vehicles covered by Vehicle Service Contracts, all eligible claims with repair orders on or after October 7, 2014, are covered by this special coverage and must be submitted using the labor operation codes provided with this bulletin. Claims with repair orders prior to October 7, 2014, must be submitted to the Service Contract provider.
Vehicles Involved
All involved vehicles are identified by Vehicle Identification Number on the Applicable Warranties section in GM Global Warranty Management system. Dealership service personnel should always check this site to confirm vehicle involvement prior to beginning any required inspections and/or repairs. It is important to routinely use this tool to verify eligibility because not all similar vehicles may be involved regardless of description or option content.