How To Check Coolant Level

Most drivers in Palm Beach County know about motor oil and windshield wiper fluid, but just what is coolant? Coolant is an essential automotive fluid that helps regulate the temperature of your car’s engine. Coolant contains an additive that ensures that it won’t freeze below 32 degrees Fahrenheit and that it won’t overheat above 212 degrees Fahrenheit, so it keeps your car running smoothly throughout all four seasons in West Palm Beach. In this guide, we’ll go over how to check your coolant level and when to see a technician. Let’s get started!

Checking Your Coolant Level at Home

So you know “What is coolant?” but how do you maintain your car at home? Learning how to check your coolant level isn’t as hard as you might think. Just pop the hood of your car and look for the coolant reservoir. Check your owner’s manual if you need help finding it. You can simply look at the markings on the side of the reservoir to check your coolant levels. If your liquid line reaches the “full” marking, there’s nothing to worry about. If your levels look low, remove the radiator cap and add the coolant or a 50/50 mix of coolant/water. Not sure what coolant blend you need? Read the bottle, or just ask our technicians for help!

Maintaining Your Coolant at the Service Center

While you can take care of a lot of maintenance services at home, it’s always good to visit the service center from time to time. Why? Technicians can take a closer look at all of the hoses and radiators to make sure everything is working properly. Here are some things to keep in mind about coolant services:

• When you check your coolant at home, take note of the color. It might be blue, green, yellow, or red. If it is brown or colorless, you’ll need to schedule a fluid flush and replacement.
• Your coolant’s texture can also tell much about your car’s performance. If the coolant is thick and sludge-like, you might have an internal gasket leak. Be sure to visit the service center soon.
• What happens if your car doesn’t have coolant? Your engine runs the risk of overheating or even severe damage, so it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance in Palm Beach Gardens!

Learn More about Coolant with Earl Stewart Toyota in Lake Park

We’ve gone over “What is coolant?” and how to check your coolant level at home. But what if you still have questions? Feel free to contact us for more information about your car’s inner workings, or just schedule a service with us at Earl Stewart Toyota. We’d happily help with your automotive concerns in Lake Park, so don’t be a stranger!