Consequences of low coolant level in a car
The refrigerant runs in a closed system. The optimal volume can be controlled using the expansion tank, where there are appropriate symbols. Norm - when antifreeze does not exceed the maximum mark, but is between it and the minimum.
During operation, the power unit of the car heats up. A refrigerant is used to keep the system running. Low coolant levels have adverse effects ranging from increased fuel consumption to engine damage.
What it means
Antifreeze allows you to remove excess heat from the car's engine, protects components from corrosion, and cleans thin channels. When a message from the coolant sensor (DTOZH) "P0117" (low level of the coolant temperature sensor) appears on the tidy, this is a reason for the car owner to pay attention to their own car.
The refrigerant runs in a closed system. The optimal volume can be controlled using the expansion tank, where there are appropriate symbols. Norm - when antifreeze does not exceed the maximum mark, but is between it and the minimum.
Boiling antifreeze
Having found a low level in the coolant expansion tank, it is not worth topping up without checking the integrity of the hoses and other elements. It is advisable to establish the cause of the reduction in the volume of refrigerant, eliminate the breakdown if it is found, and only then replenish the antifreeze in the car.
Having noticed the error icon “P0117” (low coolant level), the driver is advised to respond to it promptly, otherwise the consequences for the power unit and other components of the engine compartment can be disastrous.
Why is it declining
You can detect such a warning signal for various reasons:
- cracks and other defects in gaskets, stove or expansion tank, other components;
- weak fixation of hoses with clamps;
- valve problems;
- interruptions in the functioning of the fuel supply system;
- incorrect ignition setting;
- wrong choice of refrigerant for the machine;
- driving style.
Error "P0117" (low signal level of the coolant temperature sensor) - appears when the integrity of the cylinder head of the cylinder head is violated or due to other defects. As a result, the owner of the car may be in trouble.
Control over the volume of refrigerant allows you to timely adjust its amount in the system. In some cases, it is allowed to add distillate.
It affects the low level of antifreeze - coolant, the consequences of which can be negative, and the ambient temperature, the time of year. In the heat, the volume of the cooler increases, and in the cold it decreases, which must be taken into account when it is necessary to carry out car service.
How to check
For inspection, the car is driven out on a flat place where there is no slope that could affect the position of the refrigerant. When the engine cools down, the hood opens and the expansion tank is illuminated by a flashlight.
On the wall of the tank, the auto manufacturer applies special marks indicating the minimum and maximum volume of antifreeze. The coolant level must be between these markers.
Aftermath
Leakage of refrigerant into the cylinders or oil leads to the appearance of white vapor in the exhaust and a change in the quality of the lubricant. The error "P0117" (low level of the coolant temperature sensor) that occurs on the dashboard is accompanied by a reduction in the power of the power unit and affects fuel consumption.
Liquid level in the expansion tank
If the valves are faulty and there are problems with the expansion tank, normal pressure is not formed, the boiling point drops, which causes vapor locks that can destroy the cylinder head.
When hoses become clogged with slag deposits, there is a low - less than minimum - level of antifreeze, the effects of which are just as devastating. New plugs will form.
Incorrect adjustment of the fuel supply system will lead to detonation of the gasoline mixture, which increases heat separation. Cooling does not cope with the work, the coolant boils and, as a result, the power unit overheats.
How to prevent
In order to notice this problem in time, you will have to check at least 1 time per week or 10 days if the car is not used so intensively. A light bulb that does not always light up indicates a low level of antifreeze, an error also occurs due to sensor malfunctions.
If the owner finds a low level of antifreeze in the car, and the nearest service station or auto shop is too far away, it is allowed to replenish the coolant with distilled water. But driving on such a mixture for a long time is not recommended.
Whatever the car - Lada Kalina, GAZelle, Volvo, Audi, Kia Rio, Niva or Range Rover and BMW - the driver should pay attention to regular checks and inspections, to keep it working.
