C-Class (W202) 1995-2000: C 200 CDI, C 220 CDI, C 270 CDI, C 180, C 200 K,C 230 K, C 220, C230, C 280

Coolant level in reservoir?

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Old Dec 6, 2009 | 05:25 PM
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16 GLA250, 13 E350
Coolant level in reservoir?

Hello all,

I have a 1996 C280 with 97,000 miles on it. Yesterday the coolant warning light came on for a minute then went out several times, while the engine was cold and after warmed-up. Today it did the same. I was concerned so I stopped at auto parts store and bought a gallon of 'compatible with any vehicle' Prestone anti-freeze and headed for home. After letting the car cool, I checked the reservoir level and found that the coolant was down in the small square sump at the bottom of the tank that faces the engine. I added anti-freeze to the seam between the white bottom of the tank and the black top of the tank. Is this where it should be? Should I go to my mechanic or the dealer to have the system flushed and serviced with MB anti-freeze? I can't find any markings on the reservoir tank or guidance in the owners manual.

Regards,
Bill
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Old Dec 6, 2009 | 08:16 PM
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E=MC^2's Avatar
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W203X2 w201X3 W208 W129
It should have a fill level mark. Clean it off and look closely. As for the level being low. your either leaking it or burning it. (depending where you are and what the weather is) If it is cold in Road island I would check the radiator hoses to make sure they arnt brittle and old. Keep an Eye on your coolant level youll know if you have a serious problem.
When was the last time your coolant was flushed?
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Old Dec 8, 2009 | 10:06 PM
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Thanks E,
I'm going to look closer at the tank.
Once in a while I notice a faint smell of coolant when I first turn on the heat. Guess a leak is better than burning the coolant.
I haven't had the coolant flushed since I've had the car. (About a year) Maybe I ought to take it to my mechanic and have the cooling system pressure tested and flushed.
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