What to Do When Coolant is Insufficient?
4 Answers
When the engine is cold, directly open the coolant reservoir and top up the coolant to between the upper and lower level marks. Here is some relevant information about coolant: 1. Characteristics of Coolant: Automotive engine coolant is mainly composed of water, ethylene glycol, and additives, with corrosion inhibitors being the primary additive. The main function of additives is to prevent corrosion, while also providing anti-scale and anti-foam effects. Currently, the base fluid for automotive engine coolant is primarily ethylene glycol, and the differences in coolant formulations lie in the use of different corrosion inhibitor systems. Under the premise of using water and ethylene glycol as the base fluids, the key technology in coolant formulation research is the selection and combination of corrosion inhibitors. Typically, coolants are classified into inorganic salt types and organic acid types based on the composition of corrosion inhibitors, with inorganic salt types further divided into phosphate type, amine type, and silicate type. 2. Product Performance: Engine coolant in the coolant reservoir consists of three parts: water, antifreeze, and additives. Depending on the antifreeze component, it can be classified into alcohol type, glycerol type, ethylene glycol type, and other types of coolants. Alcohol-type coolant uses ethanol (commonly known as alcohol) as the antifreeze, which is inexpensive, has good fluidity, and simple preparation process. However, it has a low boiling point, is prone to evaporation loss, has an easily increased freezing point, and is flammable, and is gradually being phased out.
When I notice the coolant level is low while driving, the first thing I do is pull over and let the engine cool down. Don't rush to keep driving, as it can easily overheat and damage the engine. After waiting for about ten minutes, I open the coolant reservoir cap to check the fluid level. If it's low, I add the appropriate coolant—usually pre-mixed or mixed with distilled water in the correct ratio. Never use regular tap water, as the mineral deposits can clog the system. A common issue I encounter is minor leaks, such as aging seals in the radiator corners, so I carefully inspect under the engine or chassis for any signs of leakage. After topping up, I start the engine and let it run for five minutes, monitoring the coolant level. If it drops quickly, I take it to a professional repair shop to check for leaks. I make it a habit to check the coolant weekly to avoid surprises, especially before seasonal changes, ensuring the antifreeze properties are adequate to prevent system damage in winter. After handling the issue, I take a short drive to check if the temperature gauge behaves normally. Safety always comes first—don't risk major damage for a small issue.
Low coolant level is definitely a serious issue as it affects engine longevity. I immediately pulled over and turned off the engine. After letting it cool for half an hour, I checked the reservoir and topped it up since the level was insufficient. As a temporary measure, distilled water can be added, but it's only a stopgap solution. Then, I drove at low speed to a repair shop to identify the leak source. Common causes include loose hose connections or small leaks in the radiator. Neglecting this could lead to a blown head gasket, costing thousands to fix. I always check the ground for red or green fluid stains, which indicate leaks. It's also recommended to perform a cooling system pressure test every six months as preventive maintenance. A rising temperature warning while driving is a critical alert—address it immediately without taking risks. These small actions can keep your engine healthy.
My experience with low coolant levels involves a few simple steps: when the car is cold, open the front hood and check the fluid level in the expansion tank. If it's below the minimum line, add the same type of coolant without mixing other brands. After topping up, start the engine for a few minutes to see if the water level stabilizes. If it continues to drop, check for leaks, such as aging hoses. Perform a monthly routine check to maintain a full fluid level—don't wait for a warning light to act. Using compatible coolant prevents chemical reactions and extends lifespan.
