Hello there and welcome to fixya
Checking your radiator fluid:Every
modern vehicle has a Radiator fluid overflow compartment that is
translucent so you can see where the coolant level is without removing
the cap. On the side of the compartment there is a full line and an add
line. the coolant should be between the two lines. If it's below the add
level add 50% water/coolant to the full level.
The green line is the full line, the red line is the add line in the picture.
If
you don't have antifreeze but you need fluid, add distilled water,not
ordinary tap water, so mineral deposits won't build in the radiator and
cause corrosion or blockage. However, you should keep the correct ratio
of water and coolant to prevent corrosion and for the highest level of
overheat or freeze protection.
To check the fluid IN your radiator
you will need to remove the radiator cap. DO NOT remove the radiator
cap while the engine is hot. The contents are under pressure and many
people have gotten severe burns by removing the radiator cap when it is
too hot.
Notice the word "caution" on the cap in the picture.
It goes on to say the contents are under pressure.
IF you have no choice, but to remove the cap when hot, use a towel and
remove it slowly to release pressure before you get the cap off.
The fluid in the radiator should be at the top of the radiator.
Make
sure you keep 50% water/coolant mixture in the radiator. Some people
put more antifreeze in during the winter, but never put more than 70%
coolant. It will reduce it's ability to carry heat away from the engine
and prevent corrosion.
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