What to Do When the Vehicle Coolant Light Comes On?

[StLeo]

When the vehicle coolant light comes on, it indicates that the coolant level is too low. At this time, coolant should be added promptly. Continuing to drive with insufficient coolant can affect the engine's heat dissipation, potentially damaging the engine. Most vehicles use water-cooled engines, which rely on the continuous circulation of coolant within the engine for heat dissipation. There are two circulation paths for the coolant in the engine: a major cycle and a minor cycle. When the engine is just started, the coolant undergoes a minor cycle to allow the engine to warm up quickly. During the minor cycle, the coolant does not pass through the radiator for heat dissipation. Once the engine reaches its normal operating temperature, the coolant switches to a major cycle, passing through the radiator to dissipate heat. This major cycle helps maintain the engine within a reasonable operating temperature range.