Checking Coolant Level

[JimM]

Is it just me or does anyone else have trouble checking the coolant level in the overflow tank. I sure can’t see if the level is between max and min. My first thought was the tank was totally empty but then it’s a new car and the engine temperature seems to be normal once it is warmed up.

Also, there seems to be a conflict in the owner’s manual (2014). On page 8-5 is says to check the coolant level when the engine is cold. On page 8-9 it says to check the coolant level when the engine is at normal operating temperature. Every other vehicle I’ve ever owned specified to check it when the engine is cold.

Thanks for any insight.

Jim

[icedog2g]

I have a 2010 so your tank may be different. You have to face the opposite direction from the side of car to check the level and you should see the min and max.

[SouthArk370Z]

If all else fails, use a dip stick. When the stick hits the bottom of the tank, clamp you fingers on it at the cap lip. Remove stick and hold next to min/max marks with your fingers at same level as lip. Once you've done that a few times, you should be able to eyeball it.

[DEpointfive0]

So, you have a 14, pressurized tank.
Check only when cold.
Check to see if the radiator is full, then eyeball halfway full on the tank

[JimM]

Thank you for the responses. I had found the max/min lines but just couldn't see the level of the coolant through the side of the tank. I finally had the bright idea of dimming the lights in the garage and shining an LED light into the top of the overflow tank with the cap removed. That let me see through the side of the tank easily that the coolant level was just above the MAX line by a seam, so that’s why I couldn’t really see it with the naked eye. Looking though the top of the overflow tank hadn’t helped either. But all is good now. Thanks again everyone.