Don’t know why your Volkswagen coolant warning light illuminates? This post will give you the answer.
We will cover all the information about the matter, such as what to do in this situation and how to check the coolant level on your Volkswagen.
Let’s dive right in!
What Is Volkswagen Coolant Warning Light?
The coolant level warning light on your Volkswagen typically indicates insufficient engine coolant in your automobile, which could put your engine at risk of overheating.
Low coolant fluid levels are typically an indication of an engine leak, which needs to be fixed right away to prevent the issue from recurring.
Keep in mind that your car’s functionality and smooth operation depend greatly on the coolant. A car engine generates enough heat to fuse its components together when running.
By pumping coolant around the engine to maintain a stable temperature, coolant stops this from happening, protecting you from injury and helping you save money.
In case you notice your coolant reservoir tank is boiling, yet the engine doesn’t overheat, check out this detailed guide. This can signify different problems with your coolant system.
Common Reasons For Volkswagen Coolant Warning Light Illuminate
The too-low coolant level is the most frequent cause of the Volkswagen check coolant light glowing.
Still, several reasons as follows can result in this problem, including errors in the sensor, a faulty pump, or air invading the system.
Coolant Leaks
Leaks are the most frequent reason for your VW low coolant light coming on. Both the coolant reservoir and other locations along the lines, such as hoses and radiators, are susceptible to this.
Since coolant leaks are frequently difficult to discover and rectify, they can be a major problem.
We have also prepared a guide on coolant blows out of the reservoir for you to check out for further information.
Malfunction Sensor
Let’s say your coolant light VW illuminates even if there is enough coolant in the reservoir. This issue can then be brought on by a failure coolant level sensor.
Most coolant tanks come with a floating sensor, which turns on the light when the engine coolant level falls below a predetermined level.
It would be best to have a professional check and make the necessary corrections. In most cases, a new sensor will resolve the problem.
Failing Pump
When the dashboard coolant light VW comes on, it may occasionally signify a more significant issue, like a failing coolant pump.
Numerous gaskets on the water pump have the potential to wear out or sustain damage over time.
They risk allowing coolant to leak and trickle under the car. If you notice any red or green fluid leaking from under your car’s front area, this is a sign of a malfunctioning pump.
Air In The System
This is particularly common after a coolant service since air pockets can accumulate in the system during that time, making the coolant level appear artificially greater than it actually is.
Driving the car for a while may be necessary to push these air pockets out of the system. Once they are gone, the coolant level reading will decline and function as normal.
Low Fluid Levels
Car engines generate huge heat due to fuel combustion and friction between mechanical parts. Cooling water ensures stable and durable engine operation and temperature control.
The coolant fluid includes ethylene glycol, distilled water, and other substances to prevent evaporation, corrosion, and temperature reduction.
Its mixing with antifreeze also helps prevent freezing at low temperatures and ensures no harm when used below 0°C.
One of the main causes of motive overheating is a lack of coolant or coolant leakage, leading to rapid loss.
When the radiator system lacks this fluid, the engine’s heat dissipation process becomes ineffective.
This causes the engine heat warning light to illuminate, signaling to the driver that a problem needs to be fixed immediately.
In addition, a problem in the water pump system reduces the amount of cool fluid circulating through the motive.
The improper mixing ratio between antifreeze and cool fluid can also lower its boiling point and lead to engine overheating.
The usual ratio is 50:50 but can sometimes be 60:40 depending on heat conditions.
Therefore, periodically checking and changing coolant to maintain appropriate water levels is important for car maintenance.
Stuck Closed Thermostat
The thermostat is a small detail in the cooling system but plays an important role in heat regulation. It also impacts fuel economy and increases the life and durability of your vehicle.
The thermostatic valve acts as a temperature regulator, helping cool fluid circulate through the engine when the temperature reaches a specified level.
When you start the motive, which is still cold, the thermostat will close to keep the coolant cool.
This helps the engine heat up as quickly as possible. When the engine has reached the most suitable temperature, the thermostat opens to allow cool fluid to circulate. If a problem occurs with this device and is not detected in time, there will be many potential dangers.
When the car thermostat is stuck, the coolant cannot move freely, leading to abnormally high motive temperatures. When the temperature increases uncontrolled, the coolant heat warning light on the dashboard will alert the driver of this dangerous condition.
The thermostatic valve must be regularly maintained and checked to avoid this situation. If it is found to be stuck, it should be replaced immediately to ensure stable and safe motive operation.
What To Do When VW Jetta Check Coolant Warning Light Is On?
Your dashboard’s VW check coolant light is likely lighted due to insufficient coolant. In this case, the engine of your car could potentially overheat.
When the low coolant indicator turns on while driving, here is what to do to avoid further damage to the engine.
- Pull over as soon as you can.
- Wait at least 30 minutes for the fluids and engine to cool off. This way, you will avoid getting burned.
- Open the hood of your car once it has cooled off and look into the coolant reservoir.
- You might find the coolant level is low, or there’s a visible leak in the expansion tank. Based on the situation, you can call a towing service department or drive yourself to a service facility and get it professionally treated. When you feel uncomfortable driving, the former option is always better.
Again, it is crucial that you have your car maintained and inspected as soon as possible by a trained auto mechanic to ensure that any potential problems are resolved.
How To Check Coolant VW Level
Checking your coolant level regularly can help avoid issues like engine overheating and car trouble. Fortunately, this is a simple task that you can do yourself. All you need to do is follow the steps below.
Step 1: Find a clear tank under your vehicle’s engine hood. Your coolant is stored in this tank, which ought to have minimum and maximum level lines on it.
Step 2: Simply top off your coolant if it’s getting near to the minimum line. Although most auto repair shops sell coolant, we advise going to a dealership to buy antifreeze made especially for your Volkswagen.
Step 3: Secure the tank’s lid and slam the hood shut. And you are done!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Continue To Drive With My Volkswagen Coolant Light On?
The illuminated coolant warning sign will not stop you from driving because it doesn’t interfere with the functionality of your car.
Still, once your car’s engine is overheating, you run the danger of serious damage. Thus, it would be best to pull over as soon as possible in a secure location when the VW coolant light comes on.
Can I Put Water Instead Of Coolant To Turn The Warning Light Off?
Technically, you can. But we suggest you only do so in case of an emergency that your antifreeze level is critically low and you have nothing but water around.
Notice that this is not a long-term fix since water doesn’t have the same variety of freezing and boiling points as antifreeze, resulting in it cannot shield the engine of your car from damage.
It would be best to go to a service center and replace the water with appropriate coolant immediately.
The Bottom Line
Keep in mind that you shouldn’t ignore your Volkswagen coolant warning light.
It indicates your vehicle’s engine is overheating, which may lead to more serious issues if you don’t do something about it.
Thus, check coolant light VW and the tank regularly to ensure the coolant system is in good condition.