When keeping up with routine maintenance, you may have questions on how to check the coolant level in your vehicle. You may also be wondering, “What is coolant?” The purpose of coolant is to transfer heat and regulate the temperature of the engine block and parts. Why else is coolant essential? Coolant is formulated with additives that ensure the fluid remains under 32 degrees F in addition to preventing it from evaporating at 212 degrees F or above. If you are wondering how to check coolant level or when you need to replace coolant, the BMW maintenance experts at Tulley BMW of Manchester would be more than happy to assist you.
When performing this BMW maintenance task, it is not necessary to open the radiator cap to check the level. All you need to do is take a look at the markings on the side of the reservoir. If the liquid reaches the “full” marking line, you have enough coolant for your vehicle to continue running smoothly on the roads of Bedford. However, if the coolant level falls below this marking, you will need to remove the radiator cap and add more coolant. You can also use a 50/50 mix of coolant/water. Before adding any coolant, be sure to take a look at the bottle to find out if the product you chose is premixed. While you’re performing this task, it is a good time to see if any of the hoses connected to the radiator have any damage or are leaking. Note: When you need to add coolant to the cooling system, be sure the engine has cooled. You need to avoid opening the radiator cap if the engine is still hot.
Coolant is thinner than oil but thicker than water. You will need to set up an appointment at the Tulley BMW of Manchester service center near Londonderry if you see that the coolant has a sludgy appearance. When this happens, it could indicate that your car has an internal gasket leak. While it is possible to still drive your vehicle, the coolant will drain quite quickly and could lead to your engine overheating.
Coolant levels deplete over time, so it is recommended that you check the cooling system every three to six months. In most cases, coolant is blue, green, yellow, or red. If, when checking the system, you see that the fluid is brown or colorless, the system should be flushed and new coolant should be added.
When it comes to BMW maintenance, like how to check the coolant level, the service experts at Tulley BMW of Manchester have Auburn-area drivers covered. If you have any questions on how to keep your vehicle operating at peak performance, do not hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.
