How to Check Coolant Levels

If you’re new to car maintenance and care, you might be wondering, “What is coolant?” Coolant is a type of fluid that is found in your car engine’s radiator, and it helps to regulate your engine’s temperature and parts. No matter if you’re a new or veteran car owner, staying on top of your coolant is important. Without coolant, your engine will freeze at temperatures under 32 degrees Fahrenheit as well as overheat at high temperatures over 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Learn how to check the coolant level of your car, how a coolant level sensor works, how to tell if your coolant level is low, and more by reading on with the Chevrolet Of Turnersville service center.

How to Determine If Your Coolant Level Is Low

Most cars these days have two coolant level sensors. A coolant level sensor helps to detect variations in coolant temperatures. This information is then transferred to something called a temperature gauge, which is located on the instrument cluster and engine control unit (ECU). Usually, you can find a coolant level sensor in the cylinder head or next to your vehicle’s thermostat.

When your coolant level is low, the temperature gauge will climb to a red line when driving on Sewell roads. This means your engine is overheating and that your coolant level is low. As soon as you see the temperature gauge climb into the red area, stop driving if possible and schedule a service appointment ASAP.

What If My Coolant Level Sensor Isn’t Working?

Sometimes, your coolant level sensors can fail. Signs your coolant level sensor isn’t working is your car using excessive fuel or if your temperature gauge doesn’t seem to be accurate. Your check engine light will also go on in the case of a failed coolant level sensor. If this is the case, get your coolant level sensor replaced. A coolant level sensor replacement in Williamstown usually costs between $30-$200.

How to Check Coolant Levels Manually and Refill Coolant

If you choose to continue to drive with a faulty coolant level sensor, then you should make the effort to check to see if your coolant levels are low yourself:

1. To do this, locate your car’s radiator. Opening up the radiator cap is not necessary to check your coolant level.
2. Check the markings on the side of your radiator’s reservoir to see if the coolant is at the “full” marking line. If it is, you’re all good!
3. If your levels are low, open up the radiator cap.
4. Take the proper coolant, or a 50/50 mixture of coolant and water, and add it to the radiator.
5. Be sure to check the hoses attached to the radiator to see if there are any leaks or damage.

Coolant levels usually deplete every 3 to 6 months. Note, when adding coolant, make sure your engine is cooled off. Opening up the radiator cap on a hot engine is dangerous.

Learn More DIY Service Tips With Chevrolet Of Turnersville

Want more helpful tips related to vehicle care and maintenance? Read more of our service tips online at Chevrolet Of Turnersville. If you have any questions, contact our service team, or schedule an appointment at our service center in Turnersville to get your vehicle looked at.