To add coolant to your car, follow these steps:
- Locate the coolant reservoir or radiator cap:
Most modern cars have a clear plastic coolant reservoir (overflow tank) near the radiator, often marked with minimum and maximum level lines. Some cars may require adding coolant directly to the radiator via the radiator cap, which is usually found at the front of the engine bay behind the grille
- Ensure the engine is cool:
Never open the radiator or reservoir cap when the engine is hot, as hot coolant can spray out and cause burns. Wait until the engine has completely cooled down
- Add coolant:
If your car has a coolant reservoir, add the coolant mixture (typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water) to the reservoir up to the cold fill or maximum line. If filling the radiator directly, remove the radiator cap and fill it to just below the rim. Use a funnel to avoid spills
- Replace the cap securely:
After filling, securely replace the reservoir or radiator cap by twisting it firmly until it clicks or is tight
- Run the engine and check levels:
Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the coolant. The level may drop as the thermostat opens, so add more coolant if needed. Keep an eye on the levels over the next few days to check for leaks or drops
In summary, coolant is usually added to the coolant reservoir tank, but some vehicles require filling directly into the radiator. Always add coolant when the engine is cold, and fill to the indicated levels on the reservoir or radiator filler neck