Q: Hi, Basically I have the coolant light on my 306 Dturbo coming on intermittantly, usually as and when it pleases (the one that looks like a tank with two waves underneath). I'm thinking I have a coolant leak, the only problem being I'm away on business and need to do a 3hour drive tomorrow and am wondering what to do. Do I just risk it? Do I buy some coolant (if so, where does it go!)? Do I get recovered? Any ideas?
A: coolant light coming on intermittently and goes off doesn't necessarily mean that there's a coolant leak for sure. its because coolant level dropped than a certain point. Have you 1. Checked the coolant storage tank lid for leaks 2. Re-Filled the coolant and checked whether the light appears again? if so your system has devised a leak 3. Checked the engine running temperature on the temp gauge ? it should be 90 (+2~3) in my country we do add water just to top up but its not recommended. You can check the coolant type used originally and buy a can from local store. I don't see any major problem driving it if you don't have a major coolant leak. But if you have a leak in the system better to get it sorted out specially if its a leak from the water pump itself, then it can considered bit serious. How to diagnose coolant leak from water pump. Check the engine pulley driven belt area for any leaks or drippings as soon as you stop the engine. it drips for few seconds and stops. Most of the time thats a sign for the worn out leaky water/coolant pump. Good luck