As a car owner, it’s important to pay attention to your vehicle’s warning lights. One light that you definitely don’t want to ignore is the coolant level warning light. If this light comes on, it means your engine coolant level is low, which can lead to some serious problems if not addressed promptly.
Symptoms and causes of a low coolant level
When your coolant level warning light illuminates, it’s usually accompanied by a few other symptoms:
- Engine overheating
- A sweet smell coming from the engine bay
- Visible coolant leaks underneath the vehicle
There are several reasons why your coolant level might be low:
- A leak in the cooling system (radiator, hoses, water pump, etc.)
- A faulty radiator cap that’s allowing coolant to escape
- A blown head gasket, which can cause coolant to leak into the combustion chambers
- Simply needing to top up the coolant due to evaporation over time
What’s involved in diagnosing and repairing low coolant issues
If you notice your coolant level warning light is on, the first step is to safely pull over and turn off the engine to prevent any further damage. Once the engine has cooled down, you can check the coolant level in the reservoir. If it’s low, topping it up with a 50/50 mix of coolant and water may temporarily solve the issue.
However, if the light comes back on or you notice any coolant leaks, it’s time to have a mechanic diagnose the problem. They will:
- Pressure test the cooling system to locate any leaks
- Inspect the radiator, hoses, and other components for damage
- Check for a blown head gasket using a special test
- Replace any faulty parts and refill the system with fresh coolant
The cost of repairing coolant leaks in New Zealand
The cost of repairing a coolant leak can vary depending on the severity and location of the leak. Here are some rough estimates for common repairs in NZ:
- Radiator replacement: $350-$800
- Water pump replacement: $400-$700
- Head gasket replacement: $1000-$2000+
- Hose replacement: $100-$200
Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and the actual cost may be higher or lower depending on your specific vehicle and the complexity of the repair.
Why choose My Auto Shop for your coolant leak repairs
At My Auto Shop, we understand the importance of keeping your vehicle in top shape. That’s why we offer convenient, mobile mechanic services across New Zealand. Our skilled technicians can come to you to diagnose and repair coolant leaks, saving you time and hassle.
We pride ourselves on providing upfront, transparent pricing and exceptional customer service. With our 6-month/10,000km warranty on all repairs, you can have peace of mind knowing your car is in good hands.
Don’t ignore your coolant level warning light – book a mobile mechanic with My Auto Shop today and keep your engine running cool and smooth.