Q: How do I check the level of engine coolant?

asked by on December 15, 2015

How do I check the level of engine coolant?

Engine coolant serves a vital purpose in your engine, helping to disperse heat from engine operation into the atmosphere. As a responsible car owner, you should know how to keep an eye on your coolant level. Don’t worry, though. It’s not hard to do. Just follow these steps:

  1. Turn off the engine.

  2. Open the hood.

  3. Locate the coolant reserve tank (it’s on the passenger side near the front). It’s translucent, and you’ll see two lines on it – “min” and “max”.

  4. Make sure the level of fluid is between the minimum and maximum lines. If it’s low, you’ll need to top off the fluid, and possibly have the system inspected for a leak.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What is the satellite radio electronic serial number and why do I need it?
While AM and FM stations are free to listen to, satellite radio (SIRIUS) is a paid service. In order to receive signal after the initial trial period is over, you’ll need to enroll with SIRIUS Radio. To do that, you’ll...
Having clutch problems.
Hello. Depending on what symptoms are occurring would determine what needs to be done. It can be as easy as bleeding the system or replacing a part under the hood, to removing the transmission to replace the clutch. If the...
Car running rough
When your engine computer sees a problem with a major sensor or sees that an engine is misfiring, the computer will turn on the restricted performance statement with a red or amber light. The problem may be one of several,...
obd trouble code p0014 , hard up shifting
The code P0014 is for the cam sensor but since you already replaced it, then you will have to have the camshaft end play checked per a technical service bulletin (TSB) to see if it is in excess of specifications....
Getting to cylinder #3 to replace ignition coil?
I could go into a long drawn out direction to remove the coils on the engine but if you go on google and put in "2002 Infiniti q45 #3 coil removal" in the search bar you will see many good...
what causes transmission to not shift?
I would check to see if there are electronic shift solenoids in your transmission. Basically, the shift speed is controlled electronically through solenoid operated valves. Heat affects these if they are malfunctioning. For example, resistance increases as temperature rises. Also,...
I can feel the front of my car shaking at 65 (or so) mph, especially if I am turning.
This may be related to out of balance tires or potentially an alignment problem. This may also be related to control arm bushings. When a tire or wheel is out of balance, this will cause a shaking as you describe...
Defroster use AC for defog?
Hello - yes, the defrost function (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-the-defroster-works) uses the air conditioning system to remove moisture from the air. The air is then re-heated using the heater functionality, and you now have hot, dry air to defrost the inside of the...
How much to install a turbo and tune to my 2012 Acura TSX? I'll supply a 500$ eBay turbo kit and hoping for like less than 10psi
Hello. This is a system that needs to be installed by a shop that specializes in this. A failure to do so can cause some serious failures in the engine and in the new parts that you purchased.

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re Single
When When you’re buying a vehicle that needs to meet the requirements of all kinds of passengers the process can prove to be rather tricky. However, if you happen to be single, you’re the one in control, and your list...
How to Get Honda Dealership Certified
Honda car dealerships offer automotive technician jobs to mechanics who are certified through the many training programs available.
Should I Buy a Honda Accord or a Toyota Camry?
The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry have been the best-selling cars for 20 years due to their quality and reliability. Find out which is best for you.