Can You Still Drive If the Coolant Level Is Below the Minimum Mark in a New Car?
3 Answers
If the coolant level is below the minimum mark, you should not continue driving and must replenish the coolant promptly. If the temperature warning light on the dashboard illuminates, you need to add coolant immediately; otherwise, it may cause damage to the engine. The method for replacing coolant is as follows: Before completely replacing the coolant, conduct a thorough inspection to check for any signs of leaks or cracks in the pipes, with a particular focus on the five-way hose. Coolant flows through the five-way hose and is then distributed to different parts of the car to function. If there are any signs of coolant leakage in this section, replace the hose or reseal the connection as needed. Drain the old coolant, then flush the fluid channels with clean water. Add clean water to the coolant reservoir and continue filling it until water flows continuously through the engine cooling system. Then, start the engine and let it idle for 3 to 5 minutes to circulate the water. Initially, the water draining from the reservoir may appear slightly pinkish. Continue adding clean water until the drained water runs clear. Note: Remember to disconnect the heater hose and drain the water from the heater core. Approximately one hour after draining, add new coolant through the radiator hose. Then, pour another container of coolant into the coolant reservoir until it is nearly full. Start the engine and let it run for about 10 minutes. As some air is expelled from the cooling system, the coolant level will drop slightly. Top up the coolant again until it reaches the "MAXT" mark on the reservoir.
When I noticed the coolant level in my new car was below the minimum mark, I immediately felt tense because I had a similar issue with my old car before. Back then, I risked driving a few kilometers to buy coolant, only to have the engine overheat and break down halfway, costing me thousands in repairs. Coolant is crucial for the cooling system—insufficient levels can hinder circulation, causing engine temperatures to spike, potentially damaging critical components or triggering failures. In a new car, low coolant might be due to underfilling at the factory or minor leaks. My first step is to check the level when the engine is cold. If it’s confirmed low, I won’t rush to drive far—a short trip to a service station is manageable, but highways or long distances are too risky. I can top it up with the same type of coolant to the normal range, but I’ll first inspect the undercarriage for any leakage stains. If the car is under warranty, contacting the dealership for a free fix is the most hassle-free option. Safety comes first—don’t gamble with costly repairs just to save a little effort.
As a car owner who frequently takes my family out, I immediately become vigilant when I notice the new car's antifreeze level is below the minimum line. Insufficient antifreeze can cause the engine to heat up quickly, and overheating may lead to loss of control or breakdown, especially posing significant safety risks on highways. For new cars, this could be due to factory issues or minor leaks. My top priority is ensuring my family's safety: I avoid driving and either call for a tow truck or ask a friend for help to get the car to a repair shop. I first check if the fluid level continues to drop and top it up with the appropriate antifreeze to stabilize the situation. During the warranty period, taking the car to a 4S shop for diagnosis is the most reliable option. I make it a habit to check the antifreeze level when the engine is cold and have the cooling system inspected during every maintenance service. Don't underestimate this issue—neglecting it could lead to a major accident.
