Car Maintenance 101 – How To Top Up Your Car’s Coolant

As the old saying goes, “if you want something done, do it yourself” – especially when it comes to basic car maintenance! Doing it yourself can help you avoid the inconvenience and expense of a mechanic.

Coolant, also known as anti-freeze, serves two purposes – it keeps the water in your car from freezing in cold weather and keeps your car from overheating in hot weather. Although it’s rare to run out of coolant (unless you have a leak), the risk of an overheating car could cause serious damage to your engine and set you back financially.

Here’s how to top up your car’s coolant yourself:

1. Don’t do this right after you’ve driven your car – your engine should be cool. You don’t want a messy DIY session!
2. Check your owner’s manual to make sure you have the right coolant blend for your car and to find out where your coolant reservoir tank is located.
3. Check your car’s current coolant level is by looking for the level indicator on the reservoir. If the level is below the “full” line, you need to top up your coolant.
4. Mix 50% water with 50% coolant. If you can find a coolant variant with water already mixed in, your top-up process will be even easier!
5. Remove the cap from your reservoir and refill to the “full” line using a funnel. Remember to put the cap back on!
6. Well done - you’re done with the “heavy” part of the maintenance! Check your levels the next day in case there are leaks.

Of course, just because you are now able to DIY your way through basic maintenance, doesn’t mean you can now forego your car’s scheduled services or skimp on your car insurance. Having comprehensive car insurance on your side will come in handy in the case of severe accidental damage, while providing added peace of mind.