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jcbslb

Hi. I have 2002 Mazda Tribute. Yesterday the low coolant level indicator came on. I checked the level but it was full. I topped up just for the sake of it. Light went out for a while, about 30km, but then came on again. Engine temp gauge did not move from its normal operating temp. What else can i check and do? Thanks

ABayliss

If the light came on but the level was fine, the problem is likely to be the coolant level sensor.

jcbslb

Thanks for the prompt response. Can i replace the sensor myself? Is it inside the coolant bottle? By the way, how do i flush the radiator of old coolant if i want to add new coolant as i can not see any radiator cap? Thanks

Anon

The sensor is usually located on the cooling system expansion bottle (coolant bottle) and is easy enough to replace if you have the tools of the trade. Ensure the cooling system is cold when you do this to prevent injuries which may occur from contact with hot water. At the lower tank of the radiator there is normally a little tap that can be used to drain the cooling system otherwise remove the lower radiator hose to drain the system for purposes of flushing. Modern vehicles generally don't have radiator caps, located on the top tank of the radiator, but instead the filling cap is located on the expansion bottle.

snubs05

A word of warning - tributes and escapes are terrible for getting air locks in the cooling system and can be very difficult to bleed out.

If in doubt, I would get a mechanic to do the coolant change

Anon

If you are unsure how to properly do the repair then you should have a mechanic carry out the repair.