Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Low Coolant Level - Symptoms and Causes

Low coolant level in a cross flow radiator will equalize in both tanks with engine off. With engine at running operating temperature the high pressure inlet tank runs full and the low pressure outlet tank drops:
- Transmission oil will become hotter.
- High reading shown on the temperature gauge.
- Air in the coolant can cause loss of flow through the heater.
- Exhaust gas leaks into the coolant also can cause the same problems.