1998 S70 GLT coolant level fluctuation

Post by **Atis** » 05 Jun 2014, 05:25

Hello all,

usually I check the fluid levels once a week on the morning (i.e. cold engine), and it seems that every time the coolant level is different. Sometimes 10mm below max, sometimes at max or sometimes 10 mm above max (I always park at the same place).
What could cause that kind of fluctuation?

Post by **rspi** » 05 Jun 2014, 06:37

I would not worry about the change in the cold level change, check it cold, then hot. It should not raise while driving.

I don't worry if I'm not adding coolant monthly.

Post by **Atis** » 06 Jun 2014, 00:55

rspi wrote: It should not raise while driving.

It is not that easy to check it during driving...

If it is hot, the level is a bit above max.
I did not added any coolant since I have replaced the radiator in November (by the way thanks for the radiator video, it was extremely useful).

Post by **rspi** » 06 Jun 2014, 11:29

Grrrr, higher level when HOT is NOT good. Look at the cap real close to make sure it is NOT cracked. Raising level is a sign of a bad cap (should be green) or bad head gasket.

Post by **jblackburn** » 06 Jun 2014, 14:23

rspi wrote:Grrrr, higher level when HOT is NOT good. Look at the cap real close to make sure it is NOT cracked. Raising level is a sign of a bad cap (should be green) or bad head gasket.

A higher level when hot sounds pretty normal to me. It is an expansion tank after all.

Fluctuating when cold - i would have to think there's air in there somewhere that not burping out. Heater core maybe? Do you hear a weird swooshing noise from the dash area when you rev the car slightly In park?

Post by **Atis** » 06 Jun 2014, 14:32

New cap and reservoir are already in the trunk (cap cracked), and I have never heard any strange noise. Some hoses will be changed as well and I am planning to take off the parking heater and bring back the heating system to "standard".