Can I drive my car if the coolant reservoir is low?
To ensure the engine stays at an optimal operating temperature, your car relies on a fluid called antifreeze, or engine coolant. Driving with low coolant could let your engine get too hot, which usually spells trouble for your engine, your vehicle, and your journey!
Can I drive with Check coolant?
So, can you drive safely with your Coolant Pressure Light on? The short answer is that it probably won’t get you killed, but it could mean death to your car engine. An overheated engine can cause incredible damage – failed head gaskets, damaged pistons and valve stems, and distortion or cracks in the cylinder heads.
Do you check coolant level with engine running?
However, it’s of vital importance that you know you cannot and must not check your coolant levels while the car is running. Nor should you check them just after the car has been running either. You never want to open your radiator to check out coolant levels if your engine is still warm.
Why does my car say check coolant level?
Seeing the “Check Coolant Level” warning on your dashboard is often a sign you’re about to have a very bad day. Your engine’s coolant — also known as antifreeze — is a vital fluid that keeps the engine’s temperature regulated, improving efficiency and preventing overheating that could damage the motor.
Where do I find the coolant reservoir on my car?
Open your hood and locate your radiator and coolant reservoir. Some older vehicles don’t include a reservoir, but most modern vehicles have a small tank for filling and checking the coolant level. The reservoir should be clear plastic, so you can easily see the level of coolant and the maximum fill line.
When to check the coolant level in your car?
Always check your coolant level when the car is cold. If you happen to have an older vehicle without a visible overflow and fill tank, you’ll have to check the antifreeze/coolant level by looking into the radiator.
How can you tell how much coolant is in the overflow tank?
The coolant inside can be green, yellow, pink, orange, red, or gold color. Do not take a wiper reservoir for the coolant reservoir. On the body of the overflow tank, you will find two marks, Full and Low. These lines tell whether the coolant is low or high. If the coolant is below the low mark, you have to add more coolant to the reservoir.
What happens if there is no coolant in the reservoir?
Coolant reservoir plays a major role in ensuring your car runs smoothly. A problem with this component, (like no coolant in the radiator) can cause severe damage to your engine system. Therefore, it is recommendable that you know the work of a coolant reservoir tank and how to figure out issues with your reservoir tank.