What is the normal consumption of coolant over 5,000 kilometers?
2 Answers
Under normal circumstances, an annual consumption of 10% to 36% is considered normal. If the engine is low on coolant, it must be replenished immediately; otherwise, it may lead to poor heat dissipation in the engine. Automobiles use water-cooled engines, which rely on the continuous circulation of coolant within the engine for heat dissipation. Additional information: 1. The coolant follows two circulation paths within the engine: one is the major cycle, and the other is the minor cycle. 2. When the engine is first started, the coolant undergoes the minor cycle, during which it does not pass through the radiator for heat dissipation, facilitating rapid engine warm-up. 3. Once the engine reaches its normal operating temperature, the coolant switches to the major cycle, passing through the radiator to dissipate heat, thereby maintaining the engine within a reasonable temperature range.
I remember driving for so many years, the normal consumption of coolant within 5,000 kilometers is almost imperceptible. It's a sealed system, and if well-designed, the level won't drop significantly. During routine checks, if the coolant level in the reservoir is still between the MIN and MAX marks when the engine is cold, it's normal. There might be a bit of evaporation, but no more than a few milliliters. If you notice a significant drop, say more than a centimeter, then you should check for leaks—like cracks in the hoses or loose connections. I once had a minor leak, but catching it early and topping up with the same type of coolant prevented any major issues. It's also reliable to have a mechanic take a quick look during regular maintenance, after all, coolant protects the engine from overheating. Safety first. By the way, different car models may vary, but generally, stability is what matters.
