1. Safety First:
* Do not open the radiator cap or pressure cap while the engine is hot. The coolant is under pressure and extremely hot, and you risk serious burns. Let the engine cool completely (several hours) before attempting to check anything.
2. Check the Coolant Level (After Cooling):
* Locate the coolant reservoir: It's usually a translucent plastic tank, often near the radiator. The reservoir will have minimum and maximum fill lines.
* Check the level: Is the coolant level below the minimum line?
3. If the Coolant is Low:
* Find the leak: Carefully inspect the hoses, radiator, water pump, and connections for any visible leaks (look for wet spots, drips, or stains).
* Top off the coolant (if you can safely identify the leak): Only add the correct type of coolant. Your owner's manual will specify the type (usually a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water). Never use just water. Adding the wrong type of coolant can damage your engine.
* Do NOT drive the car until the leak is identified and fixed, or at least until you've replenished the coolant and know where the problem lies. Driving with low coolant will cause overheating, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure.
4. Possible Causes of Low Coolant:
* Leak in a hose: A cracked or deteriorated hose is a common cause.
* Leak in the radiator: A hole or crack in the radiator itself.
* Leak in the water pump: The water pump circulates the coolant; a leak here is serious.
* Head gasket failure: This is a more serious problem involving a seal between the engine block and cylinder head. Often indicated by white smoke from the exhaust, milky oil, or overheating.
* Coolant leak in the engine block: A crack or porous area in the block itself.
5. What to Do Next:
* If you found a small leak and topped off the coolant: Monitor the level closely. A small leak might be fixable with a hose clamp or repair kit, but a professional mechanic is often needed for more significant leaks.
* If you cannot find a leak or the leak is substantial: Take your Grand Am to a qualified mechanic immediately. Driving with low coolant can cause serious and expensive engine damage.
Ignoring a low coolant light can lead to engine overheating, which can warp the cylinder head, crack the engine block, and cause other costly repairs. It's crucial to address this issue promptly.
