What to Do When the Coolant Level is Low?

[KinsleyLee]

It is recommended to replenish the coolant promptly when the level is low. You should purchase the same brand and model of coolant as the original one used in your vehicle. If a different brand or model is used, it is necessary to completely drain the original coolant before adding the new one. Different brands and models of coolant may have varying formulations, and mixing them could lead to chemical reactions that may affect the performance of the antifreeze. When the coolant level is low, you can add an appropriate amount of soft water, commonly known as distilled water, which has undergone deionization and softening treatment. However, the amount added should not be excessive, as it could alter the boiling and freezing points of the coolant. In fact, adding water to the radiator is not as problematic as some may think. As long as the proportion and quality of water are properly managed, and it is not used under extreme weather conditions, no significant issues should arise.

[DiDawson]

When washing the car the other day, I noticed the coolant level in the auxiliary tank was below the minimum mark. Never just top it up with mineral water as a quick fix. Check your owner's manual for the specified coolant color and replenish with the same specification up to the MAX line. If you've just driven the car, don't rush to open the radiator cap - high-pressure steam can cause severe burns. Remember to check the coolant level every six months for abnormal drops; losing more than 200ml may indicate hidden issues like hose leaks or heater core problems. My car hasn't needed coolant top-up in three years. If your vehicle frequently runs low, stay vigilant - corroded water pump impellers can silently lead to overheating issues.

[SamanthaDella]

After the last heavy rain, white smoke came out from under the hood and the coolant warning light kept flashing. I pulled over and waited for half an hour, then unscrewed the radiator cap with a wet towel wrapped around it—sure enough, it was more than half empty. I temporarily bought 4L of purified water from a gas station to top it up. Later, the mechanic said using distilled water in an emergency was fine, but I had to completely replace it with new antifreeze within three days. His leak detector found a leak in the heater core, and removing the dashboard cost me 800. A reminder to everyone: leaks are more noticeable after rain, and if rainwater mixes with antifreeze, it turns into a pink jelly-like substance.

[KhloeFitz]

When the coolant level drops by half a liter in two months, never blindly trust so-called stop-leak additives. My cousin's German car ended up with a stuck thermostat due to this practice, causing engine overheating and deformation. The real culprit to check is the seal around the radiator cap—aging springs in older cars lower the boiling point, allowing coolant to evaporate as steam. A firm upper hose when the engine is hot is normal, but if it's soft and bubbles appear, there's an 80% chance the head gasket is blown. Last time I saw oil floating in the coolant, it cost 7,000 yuan to replace the entire head gasket assembly.