How To Check Coolant Level
Before anything else, something you need to know before continuing: "What is coolant?" Coolant is a fluid that transfers heat and regulates the temperature of the engine block and parts. No matter what vehicle you drive or if it’s used or new, coolant plays an absolutely crucial part in your vehicle running as it should. Learn more with us in South Salt Lake on how to best care for your vehicle.
What to Look for
You don't have to open the radiator cap to check the level. Instead, check the markings on the side of the reservoir. If the liquid reaches the "full" marking line, you're good to go. If it doesn't, remove the radiator cap and add the coolant or a 50/50 mix of coolant/water. Read the bottle to see if it's premixed.
Note: If you're adding more liquid to the cooling system, be sure the engine has cooled. Do not attempt to open the radiator cap while the engine is hot.
When to See a Service Technician
Coolant is thinner than oil but thicker than water. If you notice that your coolant is thick and sludge-like, you’ll want to schedule service at our Salt Lake Valley Buick GMC service center as soon as possible. It’s very possible, your car could have an internal gasket leak. Driving is possible, but a leaking gasket will drain the coolant quickly which means your engine could be at risk of overheating and getting damaged.
When to Change Coolant
Like most other liquids in your vehicle, coolant levels also deplete over time, so you’ll want to check up on the cooling system every three to six months. Usually, the liquid is blue, green, yellow, or red. If it's brownish or even colorless, flush the system and replace the fluid.
Get Top Tier Service at Salt Lake Valley Buick GMC!
Don’t hesitate to reach out to our service center team for more information or if you have any questions and concerns about your vehicle and its coolant levels. We’re happy to help you get back on the South Salt Lake safely. So schedule an appointment to have your vehicle serviced and your coolant levels inspected today.
What to Look for
You don't have to open the radiator cap to check the level. Instead, check the markings on the side of the reservoir. If the liquid reaches the "full" marking line, you're good to go. If it doesn't, remove the radiator cap and add the coolant or a 50/50 mix of coolant/water. Read the bottle to see if it's premixed.
Note: If you're adding more liquid to the cooling system, be sure the engine has cooled. Do not attempt to open the radiator cap while the engine is hot.
When to See a Service Technician
Coolant is thinner than oil but thicker than water. If you notice that your coolant is thick and sludge-like, you’ll want to schedule service at our Salt Lake Valley Buick GMC service center as soon as possible. It’s very possible, your car could have an internal gasket leak. Driving is possible, but a leaking gasket will drain the coolant quickly which means your engine could be at risk of overheating and getting damaged.
When to Change Coolant
Like most other liquids in your vehicle, coolant levels also deplete over time, so you’ll want to check up on the cooling system every three to six months. Usually, the liquid is blue, green, yellow, or red. If it's brownish or even colorless, flush the system and replace the fluid.
Get Top Tier Service at Salt Lake Valley Buick GMC!
Don’t hesitate to reach out to our service center team for more information or if you have any questions and concerns about your vehicle and its coolant levels. We’re happy to help you get back on the South Salt Lake safely. So schedule an appointment to have your vehicle serviced and your coolant levels inspected today.
