Accord Coolant Level

[HBCALI]

Can anyone clarify the proper coolant level in a 2001 Honda Acoord 4cl? My reserve tank seems to vary between to levels - it's either at the MAX line or half-way between MIN and MAX. I think where I park and / or engine temps make the difference when I check.

Is it safe to say it's at a good level either way? Any Honda guys with an opinion?

 

[rslifkin]

Engine temps will make a difference. I'd shoot for anywhere from halfway to max when checked cold.

 

[Sayjac]

I'd say, as long as you're between min and max you're good to go. Owners manual doesn't say whether to check hot or cold. Should/could be higher at operating temp, than when cold. Max when hot, and midway when cold sounds about right

 

[mechanicx]

You could overfill that reservior bottle and it wouldn't hurt anything. If you are always between min and max you are good to go.

 

[The_Eric]

Shoot for full (max) while fully hot.

If the rad is full, then the coolant will expand, forcing some out to the recovery tank when hot. As it cools, the radiator cap (if functioning properly) will allow it to suck back in a small amount always keeping the radiator full.

 

[PW01]

I always shoot for the "cold" level when the car has sat over night. That being said, in the middle is just fine.