How to Check the Coolant Level in Your Car

What is coolant’s job within your vehicle’s mechanical system? Coolant is a heat-transferring fluid that helps regulate the temperature of the engine block and components. No matter if you’re driving a brand-new Cadillac Escalade or a vintage Cadillac, the proper level of coolant is absolutely essential for safe driving in Chapel Hill. There’s a critical additive in engine coolant that prevents freezing below 32 degrees Fahrenheit and overheating above 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Knowing how to check the coolant level in your car is a useful skill that might prevent a serious malfunction on the road in Raleigh — learn how to check coolant with the Hendrick Cadillac Southpoint service team below!

How to Check Coolant — Where to Look

There is no need to open the radiator cap to check your coolant level! The side of the coolant reservoir should have markings to indicate the fluid level. If you can see the fluid sitting at the “full” marker, then you’re all set! If you see the fluid line sitting below the “full” marker, that’s the point when you can remove the radiator cap. Add more coolant or a 50/50 mix of coolant/water (check the bottle to see if it’s premixed) until you’re back up to the “full” marker — be careful not to add too much. While you’re at it, you can take a moment to inspect the hoses connected to the radiator for wear and tear or leaks.

Note: Before adding more coolant, allow the engine to cool completely. Additionally, never open the radiator cap while the engine is hot.

When to See a Service Technician

What is coolant supposed to look like? Healthy coolant should be thinner than motor oil but thicker than water. If you’re checking the coolant level and the fluid looks sludgy, you need to schedule a service visit without delay! This may indicate an internal gasket leak, which would leave the coolant to drain rapidly and put your engine at risk of overheating.

How Often to Check the Coolant Level

Now that you know how to check the coolant in a car, how often should you perform this simple task? Coolant is known to get depleted over time, so it’s recommended that you check the level every three to six months. When should the coolant be completely drained and replaced? The color of the coolant should be blue, green, yellow, or red depending on the type of coolant. If the coolant has turned brown or lost its color entirely, it’s time to flush the coolant and add new fluid.

Learn More from Hendrick Cadillac Southpoint!

We’ve answered your questions including “What is coolant?”, how to check coolant at home in Cary, and how frequently to check the level of coolant. Hendrick Cadillac Southpoint has lots more service tips to help you be a more confident car owner! Check out our guide to brake pads to learn more.