Where to Add Coolant?
3 Answers
Coolant is added into the radiator and the auxiliary tank. The steps for adding coolant are: 1. Turn the car key forward to shut off the engine; 2. Let the engine sit until the water temperature drops to normal temperature; 3. Open the front engine hood; 4. Unscrew the cap of the small radiator tank to release pressure from the cooling system; 5. Add coolant to the small tank up to the MAX mark. Functions of coolant: 1. Provides anti-corrosion protection for cooling system components; 2. Prevents scale buildup to avoid reducing the radiator's heat dissipation efficiency; 3. Ensures the engine operates within the normal temperature range. Precautions for using coolant: 1. Avoid mixing different types of coolant; 2. Do not use low-quality coolant; 3. Do not directly add concentrated coolant to prevent deterioration or excessive viscosity at low temperatures.
When performing DIY car maintenance, the coolant reservoir is usually the first thing you see upon opening the hood. It's typically a translucent plastic container marked with thermometer or wavy line symbols, featuring a green, black, or yellow cap with warning signs. Always ensure the engine is completely cool before refilling. When unscrewing the cap, use a thick cloth and turn slowly to prevent hot liquid spray from pressurized hoses. Remember not to fill beyond the MAX line - the level should stay between MIN and MAX. In northern winters, additionally check the antifreeze's freezing point, as excessive water dilution may cause freezing and hose rupture.
Just helped a friend top up the coolant a couple of days ago. After the engine was turned off and left to sit for over half an hour, located the white translucent reservoir labeled 'COOLANT'. Before unscrewing the cap, gently press it to release pressure - wait until the hissing sound stops indicating all gas has escaped before opening. When buying coolant, make sure the colors match - green for green, red for red. Use a funnel when pouring to avoid spilling on the engine, and fill to just above the midpoint between the MIN and MAX marks. Also took a quick look to check for cracks in the reservoir and whether the rubber hoses were hardened or leaking.
