How to Check Coolant Levels

It doesn’t matter what kind of vehicle you’re driving, most vehicles that have an internal combustion engine typically utilize coolant to maintain optimal engine temperatures. Knowing how to check your car’s coolant can ensure that it continues to run smoothly on the Sussex roads. Not sure how to check coolant levels? We can help! Learn how to check your car’s coolant today with the service professionals from Mercedes-Benz of Newton.

What Is Coolant?

Before we go over how to check coolant levels, let’s first answer the question, “What is coolant?” Coolant is a liquid that moves heat from point A to point B and helps keep the engine cool as you drive around Hackettstown. Coolant is a necessity, whether your vehicle is a new Mercedes-Benz or a pre-owned vehicle from another make.

Coolant also contains an additive to prevent it from freezing below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or overheating above 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Below, you can learn more about how to check coolant levels and why it’s so important.

How To Check Coolant Levels: Step by Step Process

In some cases, you’ll be able to check your vehicle’s coolant in your own Hamburg garage. However, there may be some instances where it’s best to leave it up to the professionals. If you’ve got some automotive knowledge and you’d like to attempt to check your coolant, we recommend you reference your owner’s manual for specifics. If your vehicle allows you to check the coolant on your own, the general process is likely similar between different vehicles. Here’s how to check your car’s coolant:

1. With the engine off, open your vehicle’s hood.
2. On some vehicles, you won’t have to open the coolant reservoir to check the coolant level. You can simply look at the side of the reservoir and check the markings.
3. If the liquid is resting at the “full” marker, your car has a full supply of coolant.
4. If it’s below the “full” marker, you’ll need to top it off.
5. To top off the coolant, carefully remove the radiator cap and slowly pour in the coolant or a mix of 50% coolant and 50% water. Before adding the coolant, read the bottle to see if it’s premixed. This is also a good opportunity to check the radiator’s hoses for any damage.

Important Note: Before adding more coolant, make sure the engine is cool. DO NOT try to remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot. Additionally, make sure you’re using the correct coolant for your vehicle. It can be different between models and you don’t want to use the incorrect coolant.

When To Schedule a Service Appointment

When it comes to consistency, coolant is thicker than water but thinner than oil; it should never be sludgy. Schedule a service appointment as soon as possible if you notice your car’s coolant is thicker than usual. Your car may have an internal gasket leak, and although you’ll still be able to drive, the coolant will be drained eventually.

Once the coolant is gone, your engine will be at a much greater risk of overheating. As we’ve mentioned, you can check your engine coolant on your own, however, we highly recommend you leave it to our team to check your vehicle’s coolant. We can ensure that your vehicle’s cooling system is operating optimally so that your vehicle doesn’t leave you stranded.

When To Change Coolant

Like other automotive fluids, coolant doesn’t last forever; it breaks down over time. It’s a smart idea to check coolant levels every three to six months. Of course, this can vary for your specific model and even your usage as you drive around Newton. We suggest you follow your owner’s manual for specifics on coolant exchanges.

Depending on the grade, coolant can be red, yellow, blue, green, or any other color. It’s always recommended to use the correct type of coolant for your vehicle. If it’s thick and brownish — or even colorless — the fluid will need to be flushed and replaced.

Schedule Service at Mercedes-Benz of Newton!

Do you have additional questions about how to check coolant levels? Contact us online or call us at (877) 870-6142. We can answer your questions and help you schedule a visit at our certified service center. Before you book your appointment, browse our current service and parts specials for offers on the routine services your luxury vehicle needs to continue performing at its best.