How Long Can You Drive After a Low Engine Coolant Level Warning?

[GraceDella]

You should not continue driving after receiving a low engine coolant level warning. Insufficient coolant in the engine will affect the radiator's heat dissipation efficiency, failing to achieve the required cooling effect. This disrupts the normal circulation of coolant, leading to overheating and potentially causing severe engine damage in extreme cases. Coolant, formally known as antifreeze coolant, is composed of water, antifreeze agents, and additives. Based on the antifreeze agent composition, it can be classified into alcohol-based, glycerol-based, and ethylene glycol-based types. The functions of coolant include: 1. Preventing the coolant from freezing and expanding in cold weather, which could crack the radiator and damage the engine cylinder block; 2. Protecting metal components from corrosion and rubber parts from aging; 3. Reducing scale formation to avoid clogging circulation pipes and impairing the cooling system's heat dissipation capability; 4. Preventing the engine from overheating to ensure it operates within the normal temperature range; 5. Providing lubrication for the water pump thermostat and other components.