How to check and top up coolant

Low coolant is one of the main causes of overheating. Check the level regularly with the engine cold.

DifficultyEasy
Time5–10 min
Typical intervalEngine coolant

Tools

  • Rag
  • Funnel

Parts & materials

  • Coolant of the type specified by the manufacturer (pre-mixed, or concentrate plus distilled water)

Step by step

  1. Park on level ground and wait until the engine is completely cold.
  2. Find the expansion tank and check the level against the MIN and MAX marks.
  3. If low, slowly open the cap a quarter turn to release any pressure, then remove it.
  4. Top up to the MAX mark with the specified coolant mixture.
  5. Refit the cap firmly.
  6. If you have to top up often, there is a leak to find.

Safety: Never open the cooling system when hot: pressurised coolant can cause serious burns.

Safety: Coolant is toxic and tastes sweet to animals: clean up spills.

Symptoms this can fix

Car overheatingWhite smoke from the exhaustCar leaking fluid: identify it by colour

Procedures differ between vehicles. Check your vehicle's service information for specifications, torque values and any special steps.

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