How to Check Coolant Levels

Have you ever wanted to know how to check your coolant level? This crucial service fluid is required to keep your fluids from freezing when the temperature drops below 32 degrees F, and it also prevents evaporation and overheating when the temperature reaches 212 degrees F or higher. In most vehicles, the coolant tank is clearly visible beneath the hood, but we’ll tell you exactly how to find yours below.

What is Coolant?

First things first. Maybe you’re stuck wondering, “What is coolant, anyway?” Since “coolant” is simply a fluid that regulates your vehicle’s temperature, the issue for many drivers comes down the difference–or lack thereof–between coolant and antifreeze!

While the words “coolant” and “antifreeze” are used interchangeably in some Ridgewood-area service centers, “coolant” may also refer to the 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water that most mechanics recommend.

How to Check Your Coolant Level in Five Minutes

If you’re wondering how to check your coolant level, you may be expecting a fairly involved process. We’re happy to say that you just need to pop the hood:

1. Your coolant reservoir should be clearly visible, and the “full” line should be right on the side.
2. Having trouble locating the coolant reservoir? Most coolant is green, but some types are orange. (If you have the option, choose green; it’s easier to detect the tones of rust which indicate a problem with your radiator.)
3. If you need to add more coolant, first check out the bottle that you’ve picked up at our parts department. It may be premixed with water, or you may have to mix it yourself.
4. Only touch the radiator cap if you’ve given the engine plenty time to cool! Then, remove the cap and add more coolant with a funnel. Check the connecting hoses for leaks, while you’re at it.

When to Check Your Coolant Levels

Coolant levels may deplete naturally as time goes on, and if you happen to spring a leak, you’re going to run into trouble. Learning how to check your coolant levels at home is a good idea, because you’ll want to take a look at least once every 3 to 6 months. It’s an even better idea to take a peek each time you check your oil levels. (Check your transmission fluid, too!)

When to Schedule Service

You should flush your radiator and add fresh coolant every so often, too. In most cases, the fact that it’s time for a flush will be indicated by discoloration, especially if it’s started to take on a brownish tone. It’s not a bad idea to perform a routine coolant flush once every 30,000 miles or so.

If your coolant is sludgy, or rust-colored, schedule service–you may have a gasket leak or a damaged radiator.

Tackle More DIY Car Care Tasks with Our Team!

Here at Land Rover Paramus, we know that the most satisfied driver is the one who really understands what’s going on under the hood. Ready to tackle a more challenging DIY car care task? Find out how to check your tire tread depth today, or learn a thing or two about the Land Rover AdBlue® fluid required for diesel vehicles. Remember, our service experts will always have your back.