Water in coolant reservoir ?
(2011-07-24 14:20:20) 1. Says: My daughter has just told me she has been topping up her coolant reservoir with water on her 02 Renault Clio. I top up with coolant on my Kangoo and don`t know what to advise her. Help please.2. Says: This needs to be investigated it depends how much and how often your daughter is topping up.The car should be topped up with the correct coolant inhibitor .The clio is quite prone to water pumps leaking if this is the case do the cam belt when you replace the pump.Unless you have very recently replaced the belt.3. Says: The cooling system should have a good coolant / water mix. If she 'has been topping up', I read this as there could possibly be a leak if she keeps topping it up. You can buy an antifreeze tester for a few pounds on ebay (Sealey ones are good, I have one), it's like a turkey baster with floating discs in that determine the efficiency of the cooling system. It also has a chart on the side that shows the level of protection depending on how many discs are floating.Filling the system with just water isn't good, nor is filling it with neat antifreeze.4. Says: If she continues of course the radiator will perforate through corrosion and it will freeze up in the winter. Tell her to top up with neat universal antifreeze. It can't really be overdone and will rectify the problem. Normally 50:50 mix with water is recommended. If she is having to top up on a regular basis there must be a leak somewhere. Leaks should be found asap as these will lead to trouble too.5. Says: You need a mix of antifreeze or coolant as you call it & water. It doesn't just stop freezing it inhibits corrosion inside the engine. She shouldn't be topping up that often to make much of a difference though. It might be worth checking for leaks.
If you're worried, tyre fitters or garages will often do a coolant check for free to make sure she hasn't watered it down too much.6. Says: coolant of course, if it is frequent topping up there must be a leak,
check the oil dip stick, if looks pale yellow, the cylinder head gasket is blown.
this means the cylinder block will have to be removed and skimmed.7. Says: The level SHOULDN'T be going down on either car unless there is a leak. As they are both Renaults then I would expect there to be a problem that needs repairing BEFORE winter.8. Says: Should be using coolant, yes. Now, per chance she's in Egypt or someplace that it just doesn't ever freeze, water will do fine. Tag: Water in coolant reservoir ?