Show me, tell me question - engine coolant

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"Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level."

Remember, the examiner only wants you to point at where you check the coolant, don't get your hands dirty!

The coolant expansion tank is marked on this picture.

Coolant contains water, and (obviously) coolant, sometimes known as antifreeze. This is circulated around the engine, and cooled in the radiator, to keep your engine at a nice working temperature. Some cars have a temperature gauge, and all cars have warning lights, to tell you if the engine is overheating.

You check the coolant by looking at the expansion tank and checking that the level is between the minimum and maximum marks:

Older cars sometimes don't have an expansion tank. If yours doesn't, you will need to check the radiator itself. Your manual will advise you.

Be careful:

• Never remove the cap from the expansion tank or the radiator unless you are sure the engine has cooled down properly. The coolant can be very hot, and under pressure, so it is possible to get badly scalded.
• According the the labels in Halfords, coolant is "toxic". That word is enough for me to avoid touching it, or splashing it in my eyes. It also damages paint if spilt.
• If your coolant level keeps falling, you may have a leak, or there may be a problem with the "head gasket" (a major seal in the engine - quite a big job to replace).
• Check your coolant at least once a week and before long journeys.
• Remember - RTFM!! Read The Flippin' Manual - before doing this on your own car.

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