docmfg

Coolant level msg came on today. Fluid level is about 2 finger breadths below fill mark. Dealer says just ot add water. I asked him if it is recommended to use distilled water he replied no. He said something about the coolant having a 15 yr life and that I am only replacing the water that has evaporated and something about the coolant contracting in the cold. It was about 50 degrees in my car last night so not very cold. Should I just add water and if so distilled, tap etc. Or do I add coolant. If I bring it in to them they will just add water according to him.
Thanks.

ATL_MB

Distilled water costs, what, $1.29 a gallon. Use distilled water -- tap water is probably fine, but it does contain chlorine, flouride and other stuff that probably is not great for your engine. If it is a one-time thing, it doesn't matter what you add, but if you need to add every couple of months, then you should alternate between adding distilled water and coolant. You could also mix distilled water and M-B coolant into a storage container and use that.

Also, I would NEVER leave ANY fluid inside a vehicle for 15 years. "Lifetime fill" is a self-fulfilling prophesy.

docmfg

I agree, I would never do that either. I would have used distilled water as well but it sounded like the dealer was implying distilled water was wrong which is a first for me. Just wanted to double check. I think I will top off with coolant/distilled water mix just to be safe. So when one gets a coolant service done at the dealer I assume they do not use distilled water based on his comments. Other than routine coolant flushes on my 03 M3 I have never had to top of coolant in that car with 111,000 miles on the clock. My C 63 only has 6800 miles on it and needs a top off. I guess this engine really runs hot.
Anyway ,thanks guys.

gsrjc

why don't you just go buy some coolant?

PatSC23

is there a specific coolant for MB? particularly AMG's?

racetested

https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w...ant-brand.html

eagle_lex

add some distilled H2O and you will be fine!