Coolant prevents car engines from freezing up in icy weather, but also keeps it cool during the steamy summer months that Las Vegas tends to provide us.
To keep your car running like new, check your coolant levels regularly.
Here are the steps to check your car’s coolant level.
Where is the Cooling System Located?
Most modern radiators come with a colored cap to make it easy to find. However, with every make and model the location varies, so if you do not know where it is located, read your car manual.
Open the Radiator Cap
In general, you want to wait 45 minutes to an hour after running your car to remove the radiator cap. Some mechanics squeeze the upper hose of the radiator, and when it gets soft, this indicates the pressure has diminished, so it is safe to open the cooling system.
Checking the Coolant Level
For the majority of coolant tanks, there will be a minimum and maximum mark on the exterior of the tank. In more modern vehicles, the antifreeze tank is transparent so checking the level becomes easier. If, however, you do not have a transparent tank, you can remove the cap and look inside. The coolant needs to be between the minimum and maximum levels to avoid complications with your engine.
How Often Should Antifreeze Be Checked and Changed?
To prevent repairs, motorists need to check their antifreeze level every week. A weekly checkup lets you spot the level of coolant before it reaches below the minimum. If you notice a persistent, sweet odor within your vehicle, this could be a sign that your radiator is low on antifreeze. Another sign is a greasy film on the exterior of your windows. In both cases, dampness or liquid beneath the vehicle could indicate a leak. On average, vehicle manufacturers recommend that you change your coolant every two years, but it depends on how much you drive the vehicle. Changing the antifreeze is essential because when antifreeze turns acidic, it eats the radiator from the inside out.
The most common form of coolant is ethylene glycol. When putting antifreeze into your engine, always mix it 50/50 with water. Antifreeze without a mix of water damages the engine and causes dangerously high temperatures.
If you would like to learn more about your vehicle’s antifreeze level, contact Desert Oasis European Auto Service and Repair. At Desert Oasis, we check your coolant as part of our routine maintenance service to keep your car running like new.
