Should the engine be running when adding coolant?
No, the engine should not be running when adding coolant to the vehicle's cooling system. The proper procedure is to add coolant with the engine off and the vehicle parked on a level surface. This ensures the coolant is added safely and effectively without any risk of injury or damage to the engine.
Reasons Why the Engine Should Be Off When Adding Coolant
- Safety: With the engine running, the cooling system is under pressure, which can cause the coolant to spray out and potentially scald the person adding it. Turning the engine off eliminates this safety risk.
- Proper Filling: Adding coolant to a running engine can lead to air pockets forming in the system, which can reduce the cooling system's efficiency. With the engine off, the coolant can be added slowly and properly fill the system.
- Avoid Damage: Pouring cold coolant into a hot, running engine can cause thermal shock and potentially damage engine components. Allowing the engine to cool first prevents this issue.
Following the proper procedure of adding coolant with the engine off is an important safety and maintenance step to ensure the cooling system functions correctly and without incident.
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