Coolant level

[chocolatemonk]

I have just checked my coolant level and I can only just see the orange fluid in the bottom of the reservoir, can I top up with water or does it have to be the orange coolant ? Where should the level be? Thanks

[dhdove]

CM

Whilst I don't have an XK8, experience says that if your coolant is of the correct formulation topping up the reservoir alone will not weaken it enough to make any difference so water (soft/de-ionised) should be fine.

The question is why has the level dropped? And....when did you last check it?
Top it up exactly to the mark (details in handbook?) when cold, run for a week and check frequently during that period (also when cold) just in case.

Best
TonyS

[chocolatemonk]

Ok thanks Tony, I have only had the car for five weeks and this is the first time I have checked it, not sure if its been at this level for some time, I will top up with a drop of water and keep an eye on it! Thanks for the advice

[robv12]

these cars should not be full to the brim, check the handbook for the correct level and top up only to that, if you over fill, the excess will bleed out leaving you thinking you have a leak

[jaysto]

Ok thanks Tony, I have only had the car for five weeks and this is the first time I have checked it, not sure if its been at this level for some time, I will top up with a drop of water and keep an eye on it! Thanks for the advice

check the clip on the pipe near the resevoir,look for signs of leaks.mine was leaking when engine was hot .....new clip 30p..........jaguar bill would be £80.30