What does 'Turn off engine and check coolant' mean?
2 Answers
The car's prompt to turn off the engine and check the coolant indicates a low coolant level, which can cause engine overheating. Other possible causes include poor grounding of the coolant pump, coolant pump failure, or excessive dirt in the radiator. Related to coolant level: In this situation, it is necessary to check whether the coolant level is normal, whether the radiator fan is operating properly, whether the radiator is severely clogged with dirt, and whether there is corrosion or poor contact in the coolant pump's grounding. Coolant: Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is a liquid composed of antifreeze additives, additives that prevent metal corrosion, and water. It needs to have properties such as antifreeze capability, corrosion resistance, thermal conductivity, and resistance to deterioration.
I've driven for over a decade and encountered coolant issues many times. Whenever someone asks about checking it with the engine running, I always emphasize safety first. The reason is simple: when the engine is running, the cooling system is pressurized and extremely hot, like a boiling kettle. The pressure is terrifying – if you open the coolant reservoir cap, scalding liquid and steam will gush out, easily burning skin or damaging components. I've seen novices ignore this warning and end up with hand burns. The correct procedure is to turn off the engine and wait 10-15 minutes for the system to cool and depressurize before checking coolant levels. By the way, when checking, look at the Min and Max marks on the reservoir. If it's below Min, add the correct ratio of antifreeze mixture – never use plain water. For routine maintenance, make it a habit to check in the morning when the engine is cold. This also allows you to inspect the cap's seal to prevent leaks that could cause engine overheating and extend your vehicle's lifespan.
