What to Do When the Coolant Light Comes On?
2 Answers
When the coolant warning light comes on, pull over immediately if it is safe to do so. After the engine has cooled down, open the front hood to inspect. Below are the specific reasons for the coolant warning: 1. The coolant warning is usually caused by a lack of coolant. For example, if the vehicle has been parked overnight and the coolant warning appears when starting the engine the next morning, check the vehicle's chassis for any traces of antifreeze. If there are traces, it indicates a leak in the coolant lines, which requires repair. If there is no leak, simply replenishing the antifreeze should resolve the issue. 2. If the coolant warning suddenly comes on during high-speed driving, it is often accompanied by a water temperature warning. This situation likely indicates a problem with the engine's cooling system, such as: damaged water pump impeller preventing proper circulation for cooling, a malfunctioning cooling fan, or clogged radiator condenser surfaces impairing heat dissipation, all of which can cause the coolant light to illuminate.
I once encountered a situation where the coolant warning light came on while driving, which is usually a signal of engine overheating or insufficient coolant. Don't panic when you see the light on; immediately slow down, pull over, and turn off the engine to let it cool for a few minutes. Then open the hood, locate the coolant reservoir (usually a translucent plastic container), and check if the fluid level has dropped below the minimum line. If it's low, there might be a leak in the system or evaporation over time without refilling. I took out the spare coolant or distilled water from the trunk and carefully added it until the level returned to the MAX line, making sure not to open the cap when the engine is hot to avoid burns. If the light goes off after refilling, it's fine, but if there's a leak, you should take it to a repair shop to check the hoses or water pump. I've developed a habit of checking the coolant level weekly to ensure it's at the right level and the color is clear, as prevention can save a lot of trouble.
