How to Check Your Coolant Level

If you think that your car is leaking coolant, don’t wait to schedule service. Your vehicle requires a mixture of antifreeze and water—AKA coolant—in order to maintain an optimal operating temperature. Without the proper amount of coolant, your vehicle’s internal systems could overheat while you drive or freeze during the depths of winter, potentially leading to major inconveniences or expensive repairs.

Even if you haven’t noticed fluid pooling beneath your vehicle while parked in Rye or Stamford, it’s important to know how to check your coolant levels and keep an eye out for the most obvious signs of a problem. Get the details in this guide from Mercedes-Benz of Greenwich.

How to Know if Your Coolant Level is Low

Most modern vehicles use coolant level sensors and warning lights that will automatically alert you if and when your coolant level is low. However, it’s also a good idea to look out for the following signs:

• Your vehicle’s temperature gauge is higher than usual
• You notice white smoke coming from your exhaust
• You see bubbles in the coolant reservoir

Some of these signs indicate a broken head gasket—one of the most common underlying issues that we see when a car is leaking coolant.

How to Check Your Coolant Level by Hand

Anyone can learn how to check coolant levels by hand, and the process only takes a few seconds. In fact, all you’ll need to do is open the hood and locate the coolant reservoir. The reservoir is clear, and you can tell where your coolant level should be by checking the markings on the side.

Not sure what to look for? Coolant is generally green or orange in color—and you can always check your owner’s manual if you want to be sure that you’re looking at the right container.

If you need to add more coolant, give the engine plenty of time to cool before you open the radiator cap. In fact, we recommend that you add more coolant first thing in the morning, before the vehicle has been driven.

Keep in mind that coolant levels generally deplete over time—and that you should flush and replace your coolant at least once every two years or 30,000 miles.

Let Us Know if You Have Questions!

Our trusted service center is easy to reach from anywhere near Greenwich or New Canaan, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re in need! You can even explore our current service and parts specials online before you stop in, or continue your research from home.