Other less likely, but possible causes include:
* Water pump: While more common to leak at the front, a severely worn water pump *could* leak from the back, especially if the weep hole is clogged or the seal is failing in an unusual way.
* Cracked engine block or head: This is less likely given the commonality of the intake manifold gasket issue, but a crack in these components *could* cause a rear coolant leak, especially if the crack is near a coolant passage in that area.
* Hose connection: Though less likely at the very rear, a poorly clamped or deteriorated hose connecting to a component near the back of the engine could leak.
* Rear heater core: This is located somewhat in the rear of the engine compartment, and though failure typically leads to a leak *inside* the vehicle, a severe leak could manifest externally, though it's less common.
Before jumping to conclusions and expensive repairs, it is crucial to have a thorough inspection by a mechanic. They can accurately pinpoint the leak source and recommend the appropriate repair. Simply observing where the coolant is dripping may not identify the true source of the problem.
