mystery coolant leak

[re-run]

2011 S auto

I have a mystery coolant leak somewhere. Last year I had to have body work done, got my X back and it would blow cold air in the winter unless I kicked up the rpm a little. Added some coolant and the issue went away. Never happened before this. However, ever since I bought it new, I could randomly smell traces of coolant.
Today, same thing, added probably a quart of coolant, though the overflow tank level appeared fine.
Now, I know the system is supposed to be a "closed" system. So, I am not entirely sure if I need to bleed the system at all. Regardless, it is the mystery leak I am wondering about. I've heard about the smod, but my tranny fluid appears fine, and no issues that seem to be common with that issue. Also, if it were doing that, would I smell the sweet maple odor? So, I am thinking I have a hose leak somewhere.
The smell is more pronounced on the driver side of the engine compartment. Does not come into the cabin. Very little odor seems to emanate from the passenger side. It is not a fast leak, it never leaves anything on the ground. So, I am guessing it is a very small hose leak, but I am not sure where I should look, since there is no real wet spot.

Thanks!

 

[Bushnut]

I’d first check the heater hoses. Mine when earlier this summer. The lower one had a small split and would drip onto the bell housing of the transmission where it would evaporate, never leaving a puddle.

 

[re-run]

Huh, that sounds very plausible. Do you know of a source for a shop manual? I haven't looked here, yet. Or a pic of said hoses?

 

[Bushnut]

I’ve got a different engine than you, but I would look for 2 hoses one above the other that enter the firewall most likely on the passenger side.

 

[re-run]

Well, I'll see if I can get around the mess of other hoses and whatnot. When you found yours, was there a lot of residue that helped you find it with your hand?

 

[Bushnut]

When I found mine the hose had finally split and was spraying all over. But I had noticed the same smell and slow drain of coolant that you mentioned weeks prior.