Coolant for C32

[Swozza]

Hi All

So for the last couple of days the coolant warning light comes on, needs a top up.

My question is can I use box standard coolant from Halfords or is they a special coolant for the C32?

Thanks

 

[Will]

Personally, I'd try and stick with MB coolant - it's not that expensive (from what I remember, less than £20 for 5L).

Where has the coolant gone though? It shouldn't really need 'topping up'

Will

 

[SilverSaloon]

check the back of the container. it should have a list of manufacturer specs.

i used Comma Green in my SL.

saying that, i also plan to use this in my alfa even though its not listed as to alfa spec.

coolant is coolant isnt it???

 

[Bobby Dazzler]

As well as the usual alarm bells regarding consumption of coolant, it's also worth remembering that this could be a symptom of collant getting into the transmission through the cooler. Search for glycol or valeo for more information.

Fingers crossed it's NOT that, but worth checking.

 

[Swozza]

Don't all cars need a top up once in a while. No grim reaper please. I've just got the thing fixed.

 

[Bobby Dazzler]

Sorry Swozza. Need to be mindful of it though, if there isn't anothe obvious reason for it.

Assuming that it was at the right level when it was changed, it must have dropped a fair way in order to trigger the light. Thinking about oil, it requires about a 25% drop to trigger the warning light IIRC.

 

[Swozza]

I haven't touch any of the fluids since purchasing. So I guess a top up is the perfect test.

 

[Swozza]

Just checked. And the coolant is about 3/4 full. Isn't this enough, could it just be a blip. Sensor?

 

[Smiley]

Dont overfill the coolant reservoir - it should be at the max limit and no higher. Check it when it is stone cold. If you live i a hard water area then better to use distilled water to top up - saves furring up the rad.

It should not need topping up normally and if you need to keep topping up then get it investigated - the car WILL let you down at some point after that - it is a question of when and not if.

The causes will be a leak from a hose or rad or heater matrix or water pump - none of which will get better on their own. Or it is the head gasket - ditto and you will do further damage to the engine. Or it is the coolant escaping into the autobox, the worst and probably least likely scenario. Or it could be the pressurised cap has failed allowing the coolant to escape - least costly but also rare.

 

[Smiley]

Don't all cars need a top up once in a while. No grim reaper please. I've just got the thing fixed.

In a word "no". What has just been fixed?

 

[Will]

Ditto to the above - it's quite unusual to have to 'top up' the coolant system on cars. I have not had to top up any of the many cars that I own/have owned/driven in years.

Would definately get it investigated sooner rather than later as if it were to be something like the dreaded Glycol/Valeo issue the longer it's left the more damage that could be done.

Will

 

[Swozza]

In a word "no". What has just been fixed?

Nothing coolant related.

• Secondary Air Pump
• Power Drain
• Worn SC baring.

 

[lynall]

Maybe when they did the sc bearing they had the coolant system open? and it will always drop a little afterwards.

I just use the red coolant in my cars its also called oats, good for 5 years, also easy to see leaks as it cystalizes leaving a red residue.



Lynall

 

[Neiltodd]

Had the same message on my C32 2 weeks ago,topped it up but havn't found a reason for the drop yet but the sensors do appear very sensitive as only needed about 50ml.

 

[Swozza]

Thanks chaps. I'm going to put a little in then monitor it over the next month.

 

[Swozza]

Bump.

I've monitored this for about 3 months now and the coolant tank level has remained about half full/full empty which ever way you look at it. Not sure if that's right because there is not max level on the tank. That aside good news is that its not gone down. I have found the coolant warning light only comes on when the engine is cold and the nose of the car is facing down or under hard acceleration/braking.

So, should I add some more coolant? Or just let it be. I've also thought it might be the coolant sensor, Has anyone got the part no for this.

Thanks for your help

Swoz

 

[kwakdonut]

The coolant reservoir should have a clear(ish) bottom and black top section. The level should be the join between the two.

 

[Swozza]

No its half way up the clear part of the reservoir. Can anyone else confirm the level as my local garage says it looks right.

 

[kwakdonut]

Both my C and E Class's were to the join between black and clear sections. I remember the light coming on in my C Class and it was about half way down. Topped it up and light went out, never needed doing again.

 

[Swozza]

Thanks Mate