On a vehicle that's had correct green coolant all it's life, first thing to check is the waterpump - look under the pump for leaking coolant or traces of white power which is the residue from coolant once it evaporates. Next in line is the heater tap located under the brake master cylinder - these can split or rust. Hoses can leak at connections which should not be overtightened. Heaters can also leak and can be replaced without removing the dash. Plastic side tanks on the radiator can and will split - look for traces of dried coolant. Inlet manifold gaskets will also leak either into the engine or externally.
On vehicles that have had ordinary tap or bore water used as coolant, add welch or expansion plugs and thermostat housing to be checked. Neglected systems can leak like a seive and be virtually impossible to fix completely.
A well looked after cooling system will only need topping up possibly once every 12 to 18 months.
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