What could be wrong with my coolant system

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Recently got a used Lexus, the coolant reservoir drains dry, temp gage is functional but never indicates temperature past halfway mark. I'm getting the little birdcage dash light indicating the coolant system isn't properly functioning. Would it be safe to just top off with water until the problem can properly be addressed?

vincent.palmer8793

Mar 24, 2018

2 Replies

Popular Answer

DaveJMon Mar 25, 2018

Hello, it's very hard to know what is "safe" -- if your coolant reservoir is low or empty, the coolant must be going somewhere. It is either leaking internally inside the engine or externally which should be visible. In either case, cooling system issues are serious, and need to be resolved sooner than later. If you have an internal engine coolant leak, further performance issues will occur and internal damage could occur. If you have an external leak, overheating can eventually occur, causing damage. I would have this inspected and diagnosed sooner than later.

pushrodon Mar 25, 2018

I don't see a location posted - be very careful adding *water* to the cooling system if in a cold climate!

pushrodon Mar 25, 2018

Adding water only to the cooling system will dilute antifreeze to the point of freezing. I agree - have it checked out ASAP.

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