Noticed the coolant in the reservoir was almost empty today after driving for about 1 hour. I slowly opened the cap (was intending to top it up) when the coolant quickly re-entered the reservoir and back to the normal level.
Is this normal or an issue! As far as I can tell, everything else seems fine. Engine runs with the gauge half way and never goes past.
thoughts!
franc123,
May 23, 3:22pm
First of all don't touch it when its hot, the coolant level should only be checked when cold,the level in the header tank or overflow reservoir should be at the lower mark, or a little way above it is OK.If it requires topping up, do so when cold and watch what it does over the next week or so and recheck it again when cold.Mark where the water level is with a felt pen if necessary.If it requires topping up again you need to find out where its going to, have a good look around the radiator, hoses, heater lines and around the engine for any signs of water staining.If theres nothing obvious get it pressure tested by a radiator shop or garage.
deegee,
May 23, 3:34pm
cheers, will do. Its probably due to a bit of a service and plan on some long haul trips soon so will book it in soon.
I have been trying to find more on this online but not many comments. Is half way (and constantly there) ok for the temp gauge! I read something about bleeding the air from the coolant system, any benefit in doing this in this situation!
franc123,
May 23, 3:38pm
In most cases yes, the gauge usually sits about 1/3 to 1/2 way up on most cars.Is the gauge marked in degrees!Much of that Opel product is, should be around 80-90 when its warmed up.The cooling system should not need bleeding unless the level has fallen significantly.
deegee,
May 23, 3:48pm
hmm, id have to look at the gauge, I don't think its marked in degrees. just has points at 1/4 1/4 3/4 then red. its never been to the red although one summers day (30+ here in brisbane) in a traffic jam it got to the 3/4 mark.
i have a niggling feeling that the coolant in the reserve is getting low too fast. I guess its a visit to the garage to sort it all out. Any benefit in bleeding it in any case! From what Ive read its straight forward and just a matter of opening the cap and running the car until up to temp and topping up if needed.!
pandai,
May 23, 3:58pm
Maybe you ought to be finding a leak.
deegee,
Mar 24, 12:53pm
no sign of any leaks. If the leak was small enough I guess you wouldn't see it! I might ask that the garage does a pressure test on it.
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