Checking your engine coolant (antifreeze) level helps prevent overheating and engine damage.
Your car parked on level ground
A cold engine (very important)
A torch (optional, for better visibility)
Wait at least 30–60 minutes after driving, or check before starting the car.
Never open the cooling system when hot — it can be under high pressure and cause serious burns.
Open the bonnet.
Look for a translucent plastic tank (usually white, pink, or blue fluid inside).
It will often be labelled “coolant” or have a thermometer/heat symbol.
Do not open the radiator cap on modern cars unless the manual specifically says to.
On the side of the reservoir, you’ll see markings such as:
MIN / MAX
LOW / FULL
The coolant level should be:
Between MIN and MAX when cold (ideal range is usually closer to MAX when cold)
Below MIN: coolant is low → top up needed
Between MIN and MAX: fine
Above MAX: slightly overfilled, usually not urgent but avoid overfilling further
If the level is low:
Use the coolant type specified in your owner’s manual (important — different engines need different types)
Slowly add coolant into the reservoir (do not overfill)
Fill to just under or up to the MAX line when cold
If you only have water in an emergency, it can be used temporarily, but proper coolant should be added as soon as possible.
Check coolant level every few weeks, especially before long trips.
If you frequently need to top up, there may be a leak.
Inspect for signs of leaks (puddles under the car, sweet smell, or crusty residue near hoses).
Never open a hot radiator or coolant cap.
Avoid spilling coolant — it is toxic to pets and harmful to the environment.
If the engine frequently overheats or coolant drops quickly, get the system inspected.