1. Safety First: Pull over to a safe location as soon as possible, away from traffic. Do not continue driving.
2. Check the Coolant Level (carefully!): Let the engine cool completely before attempting this. The radiator and coolant reservoir will be very hot. Once cool, locate the coolant reservoir (usually a translucent plastic tank) and check the coolant level. It should be between the minimum and maximum lines. If it's low, you've identified the problem.
3. Assess the Situation:
* Is there a visible leak? Look for any signs of coolant dripping or pooling under the vehicle. Check hoses, clamps, radiator, and water pump for leaks.
* Is the coolant visibly contaminated? Is it milky or rusty? This could indicate a head gasket problem – a much more serious issue.
* Did you recently have work done on your vehicle? A new hose or incorrectly tightened clamp could be the culprit.
4. Add Coolant (if safe to do so): If the level is low and you can safely identify where coolant is missing and it does not appear to be leaking, add a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Never use just water. Using the wrong type of coolant can damage your engine. Consult your owner's manual for the recommended type of coolant.
5. Call for Help: Once you've added coolant (if necessary) and assessed the situation, call a tow truck or roadside assistance if you're not comfortable diagnosing and fixing the problem yourself. Or, call a trusted mechanic. Do not attempt to drive the vehicle until the problem is resolved.
6. Professional Diagnosis: A mechanic can properly diagnose the cause of the low coolant, whether it's a leak, a faulty water pump, a blown head gasket, or something else. Ignoring a low coolant light can lead to overheating, which can cause catastrophic engine damage.
In short: Don't drive with a low coolant light on. Pull over, let it cool, check the level and for leaks, add coolant if safe to do so and then seek professional help.
