2023-10-09 06:03:39
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What is coolant?
Definition and usefulness
Coolant, also called antifreeze, is a fluid mainly composed of water and it is thanks to this liquid that the engine continues to operate at optimal temperature. It also helps protect engine components from erosion and cold.
Adding coolant (or antifreeze) to the tank – Source: spm
More precisely, the mixture is composed of water and glycol and it is the latter element which ensures the antifreeze function of the coolant. In extreme cold conditions, it prevents the fluid from freezing but also prevents the engine from overheating during extreme heat. It is thus an element which greatly contributes to the proper functioning of heat engines by allowing their temperature to be regulated. Whatever the weather conditions, it is a guarantee of engine stability.
The composition of the coolant
Usually, the coolant consists of one of two types of glycol: ethylene glycol or propylene glycol.
According to the Mobil website, ethylene glycol is particularly toxic. It is therefore recommended, as a preventative measure, to place antifreeze out of reach of children and animals. On the other hand, propylene glycol has low toxicity. The risk to children and pets is therefore limited.
In addition, antifreeze also contains additives that help protect the engine, heating system and radiator of the automobile from rust and corrosion.
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Understanding the coolant symbol
Description of the symbol
On the dashboard, the coolant warning light is a pictogram generally in the form of a thermometer whose lower end is covered with small waves. Once turned on, you must understand that the liquid level is low or the temperature is too high.
Thermostat liquid light on – Source: spm
Differences according to manufacturers:
Depending on the manufacturer, the coolant symbol may have small variations, particularly in color. Orange indicates prevention, while red indicates emergency and a problem in the car. It might be a faulty temperature sensor or overheating of the coolant. Is the coolant level low? The light takes care to notify you by lighting up. We then understand that we must add liquid to the tank. However, you will find the level sensor more on recent vehicle models.
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What to do when the coolant symbol lights up?
Checking the liquid level
If the coolant symbol lights up, don’t think twice. A fluid top-up is required. Check two elements: The condition and quantity of the liquid.
You can therefore visually check the coolant level. If the level is low, fill the tank by topping up.
Coolant reservoir – Source: spm
If you are not sure of the location of the cooling tank, in most cases you will find it in the compartment dedicated to the engine of your car. But since the location where it is located can vary depending on the vehicle model or brand, here is a small list of the most common locations where you can spot it:
- Near the firewall: Whether on the driver’s or passenger’s side, the coolant reservoir may be located at the firewall in some cars. It can be attached to the radiator.
- Near the engine location: The coolant reservoir may be located near the engine and in some cases you may need to remove covers to access it. Moreover, it can be on the passenger side as well as the driver’s side.
- Next to the radiator: You can also locate the coolant reservoir at the radiator, as is the case with many vehicles.
Caution
Be careful though, it is important to wait for the engine to cool before opening the tank. Ideally, you also check the level on a flat surface.
Other warning signs
Checking the coolant is all the more important when other warning signs appear such as the appearance of steam emanating from the hood, unusual noises and of course, engine overheating.
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Common causes of coolant symbol activation
Leaks in the system
A leak in the cooling system may be causing the coolant temperature light to activate and the engine to overheat. The pipes can thus crack and observe puddles of water under the vehicle. As a result, you may notice that the coolant level in your vehicle’s radiator is low.
Thermostat Problems
The temperature light can also come on if the thermostat is defective, the latter can be the cause of an overheating engine. This is an important component since its role is to regulate the flow of coolant through the engine.
Faulty water pump
The coolant light may come on if the water pump is faulty. A water leak from the engine may be observed. The role of the water pump is to ensure the circulation of the coolant in the engine.
The radiator fan has faults
The role of the radiator fan is to ensure good air circulation in the radiator and to cool the engine. When defective, the motor risks overheating; you will see the temperature indicator light up.
Clogged radiator
Limescale deposits and debris can be the cause of the blocked radiator.
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The importance of regular cooling system maintenance
Fluid replacement frequency
While it is important to check the coolant level regularly, it is also advisable to perform an oil change every 60,000 km or every 2 to 4 years.
Steps to purge the system
Sometimes the fluid circulates with difficulty, causing the engine to cool. This is what can happen when air manages to enter the cooling system. And this is why it is important to purge it to remove air bubbles.
Is the liquid dirty? Is the coolant light on or is the coolant level low? A simple purge may be enough to resolve the problem. Here is how to perform this maneuver:
What you need:
- Gloves,
- A funnel,
- Coolant
- A bowl.
Before starting the bleeding process, it is important to wait at least 15 minutes following turning off the engine and the vehicle is placed on a flat surface. We also put on gloves to avoid touching the coolant or getting burned.
If you want to carry out a total purge, you will need to use a bowl to collect all the dirty fluid.
So provide rags and a container that is large enough to hold approximately 10 liters of drained liquid. Without further ado, here are the steps to follow to properly bleed the engine:
- 1st step : Remove the cap located at the top of the radiator then place the bowl just below the drain plug. Then unscrew the cap and allow the bowl to receive all the dirty liquid before replacing the drain plug in its place.
For information
If you simply intend to replenish the coolant level, this first step should be skipped.
- 2nd step: If you used the basin to collect the coolant, add a new dose, respecting the level marked on the expansion tank (the reservoir).
If, on the other hand, you did not need to use the basin because you simply want to top up the coolant, simply check. If the level is low, it must once more be filled to the level indicated on the tank. - 3rd step: We then evacuate the air bubbles by opening the small taps at the level of the cooling circuit pipes. At the same time, open the radiator cap then leave the tank open to allow air to compensate for the water removed.
Then, you will have to swirl the liquid in the system to purge it. To do this, simply start your engine for 10 minutes or more.
- 4th step: Finally, stop the engine and wait a few minutes before checking the coolant level once more.
Still low? Add another dose. Sometimes you may need to repeat this process two or three times depending on the coolant level.
Last thing, it is also advisable to ensure that the threads of the tank caps are well cleaned before replacing them. This will ensure they are waterproof.
Remember in any case that to prevent air bubbles from infiltrating your cooling system, it is necessary to purge regularly.
Regular inspection
A regular inspection should also involve checking certain components to spot the slightest sign of wear:
- The seals and the water pump drain hole: If you need to check the joints and the drain hole, it is because they are not immune to problems such as leaks or erosion. If you see a leak at the drain hole, there is also a problem with the internal seal. If you wait a long time before replacing it, it’s overheating. So don’t hesitate to change it as soon as possible.
- The radiator cap: It must be in good condition. To do this, you must check the rubber seal on the cap and clean it with a cloth. If it has cracks or has hardened, it’s time to get rid of it and replace it with another cap.
- The pipes : It is also possible that the pipes or belts may show damage and cracks. If this is the case, replacement of these parts is necessary.
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The dangers of ignoring the coolant symbol
Engine overheating
You will have understood, there is nothing gained by ignoring the coolant warning light and this is all the more the case as it can indicate engine overheating and cause irreparable damage. This may particularly be the case of the head gasket which is likely to blow due to a low quantity of coolant. As a result, your engine may lose power, smoke may come from the exhaust or the engine, or there may be shock noises from the engine.
In some cases, the check engine light will not only come on as it may also flash. This should alert you and prompt you to stop the engine immediately. If this happens, it is probably because it has overheated to the point that it is even likely to cause a fire. Needless to say, it is essential to take the coolant warning light seriously…
Permanent damage
A coolant problem can also cause problems that might arise in the long term due to erosion and possible damage becoming problematic. So beware of imminent danger…
F.A.Q
Can I continue driving even when the coolant light comes on?
When the coolant light comes on on the dashboard, it is not recommended to continue driving your vehicle. It is wiser to stop the engine and park the car in a safe area.
What should I do when the coolant symbol comes on while I’m driving on the highway?
This example is no different from the others. If you decide to continue driving when the coolant light comes on, you might cause serious engine damage. Again, you should park in a safe area before stopping the engine.
How often should I check my vehicle’s coolant level?
It is recommended to check your coolant level monthly and as often as possible. This simple, regular action helps your vehicle’s cooling system continue to function properly.
How far can you drive without coolant?
Without coolant, you won’t be able to drive far. After 3 to 5 km, the engine begins to overheat and may even shut down to protect the internal elements from heat damage. If your vehicle does not have this protection, then the engine is at risk of serious damage if you continue driving.
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