antifreeze?

[howardpm]

So I picked up some washer fluid today, and while filling up the lamps and wipers I noticed that the antifreeze (I guess thats the container that says Min/Max on it) had almost nothing in it. Is this normal? Isn't this something that gets changed every 50,000 miles? Should I call the dealership? No lights have gone on or anything but seems odd its so low.

[GR33NIE]

You can top up the antifreeze / coolant yourself ive topped mine up a couple of times before

[howardpm]

Ya, but is it normal its that low with no warning or error?

[GR33NIE]

Quote: Originally Posted by howardpm (original)

Ya, but is it normal its that low with no warning or error?

I dont think (think) there is any warning sign that comes up if it's low, mine has been low recently at 35,000 miles which is when I topped it up

I think it's normal for it to be that low though if it's never been topped up in 50,000 miles

[S33BBY]

AFAIK there's no warning. It shouldn't go down too much, but as long as it's above the minimum level it's fine. If it does go under the minimum level, you can just top it up yourself.

[popey]

Check it with the engine running

[faster,Tobias!]

Your warning comes in the form of an overheating engine....

[humph]

Top the coolant back up and keep an eye on it. If it drops again in a reasonably short period of time take her in. Or if it makes you feel any better take her in and get them to do a pressure check, although this isn't a 100% guarantee.

All of my recent cars (except my 2 MINI's) have suffered coolant loss, and over a period of time it is to be expected (even from a sealed system). Two suffered from sudden loss (once each) where the coolant disappeared overnight with no explanation, but both where fine once topped back up.

[popey]

Are you checking it with the engine running?

[howardpm]

lts way way below the min. I can barely notice anything is in it. I haven't checked with the engine running though does that make a difference?

[S33BBY]

Quote: Originally Posted by faster,Tobias! (original)

Your warning comes in the form of an overheating engine....

Unfortunately for me, having factory navigation means I have no temperature gauge.

[S33BBY]

Quote: Originally Posted by howardpm (original)

lts way way below the min. I can barely notice anything is in it. I haven't checked with the engine running though does that make a difference?

Well it'll actually go even lower with the engine running, so what you want to do is top it up, then run the engine for a bit, and top up again if necessary.