Things are getting HOT here in Flemington! And that means your BMW is working double duty. This week we want to talk about how to check your engine’s coolant, when to replace, and what to do when things don’t quite look right! So let’s get things started. Take a look below and if you have any questions or need assistance with your vehicle, our team is only one phone call away! We look forward to working with you! 

First, it’s important to understand that your vehicle’s radiator works to cool down your engine and in order for this to happen, your engine needs a 50/50 mixture of water and coolant aka antifreeze to function. With this being said, if your coolant isn’t at proper levels, you could end up with an overheated engine on the side of the road. This is obviously something no one wants to experience so here’s how to check your coolant levels from the comfort of your very own driveway! 

• When getting started, we have to locate where your coolant reservoir is. Pop open up the hood, this typically tends to be towards the back next to your engine. And in some cases is labeled accordingly.

• Rather than opening up the cap of your reservoir, most tanks are clear and will allow you to be able to see where your coolant levels are. Your coolant should always be at the “full” line. If it’s not, pop open the cap and fill up with a 50/50 mix of water and coolant. Most auto stores sell this premixed for convenience. 

• Coolants can vary in colors. Some of the most popular are red, green, blue and yellow. So, if your coolant looks colorless, rusty or has particles floating around – it’s time to flush it all out and fill up with fresh coolant! 

• If your coolant has a sludgy, oily surface, it’s important to bring your vehicle into our service department as soon as possible. This could be an internal head gasket leak and you’ll want this fixed right away. 

• While you’re working under the hood, be sure to spend a few minutes checking the hoses. These are the big hoses that go into the top of your radiator and exit the bottom. If these look cracked, bulgy or are extremely squishy, it’s time to replace them! 

WARNING! NEVER work on a hot engine and always allow your vehicle ample time to cool off before every working on it. Also, NEVER open your coolant reservoir before your vehicle has cooled. Coolant can be ejected from the reservoir and could burn you or others standing nearby. Lastly, only in emergencies should you add only water to your reservoir. But be quick to flush it out or add antifreeze as soon as possible.