When do you add coolant

This heat is then dispelled in the radiator thanks to the volume of cold air coming in through the front grille and fan, and the liquid recirculated to absorb more heat. As the process is continuous, this ensures that the engine is always running at the correct temperature. If you no longer have the manual, head online and visit forums dedicated to the make and model of your car — a fellow motorist should be able to point you in the direction of the coolant reservoir for your specific type of car.

After filling, make sure that the cap of the expansion tank is replaced and tightened. If the level is below the minimum line, top it up to the maximum line and monitor on a daily basis. Leaks can occur throughout the cooling system, and may cause serious problems, like overheating and engine damage, if left unattended. Cooling systems are pressurised, and by removing the fill cap when the engine is hot you run the risk of a serious burn.

But what exactly should you do when the temperature gauge starts to climb towards the red, indicating that the engine is overheating? If you notice the temperature gauge creep into the red, the first thing to do is switch off the air conditioning. Switching it off reduces the engine load, so things will cool down faster — an absolute essential in the summer. Turning the heaters to full will transfer heat away from the engine and into the cabin, which may not be very comfortable for you, but the engine will thank you.

Switch into neutral and rev the engine at about 1,RPM to get the cooling fan going. Stop-start traffic is about the worst situation to be in when your car is overheating. Setting off is also bad news for a hot engine, as the car is having to work against inertia and requires more power. Refilling the fluid antifreeze or coolant is something you should only do when the engine is cool.

Just wait until the engine is cool. Carefully open the reservoir cap and add the coolant until it reaches the fill line. If it seems like you have to refill your coolant often, there may be a problem with your vehicle.

Take it to the mechanic for servicing as soon as possible. If there is a leak somewhere, you want to know about it and get it fixed.

Engine coolant or antifreeze is important for maintaining your engine temperature. Watch this video to learn everything you need to know about coolant. Running low on coolant is a problem. Pick the Right Kind Like an assortment of delicious popsicles, engine coolant comes in several different colors and types oat antifreeze, coolants with acid technology, dex cool, coolant antifreeze with and without silicates or propylene glycol, etc.

Wait for Your Engine to Cool Down Refilling the fluid antifreeze or coolant is something you should only do when the engine is cool. If you check your coolant reservoir while the engine is hot, it could explode. Remember the importance of a reputable mechanic.