Advice on Coolant
 

I've noticed that every three or four times I start my car the low coolant message comes on. It isn't consistent, so I haven't worried about it too much. But I did pop the hood last night and it looked like the coolant reservoir was low. Not empty, but low. I have a 2012 XF w/ 30,000 miles on it. Any advice on what type of coolant to use to top it off? And how to do so? The manual says use a coolant that is a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze to "specification WSS M97B44". What does that mean? Is it a specific brand of antifreeze? Is it carried at an auto-zone type store? Is this something that I can just top off, or should I take it to the dealer and have them drain it and fill from empty?

Sorry for all the questions. Thanks in advance for the advice.

Cheers.

The recommended WSS M97B44 is a specification and not a brand. You can go to your favourite store and buy any brand that meets or exceeds this specification. It will be on the label.

The 50/50 ratio of coolant to water is important. If the coolant is too diluted, it won't offer sufficient low temperature protection. Many owners top up with water and this gradually reduces the concentration of the mixture.

If in doubt, drain and refill.

It's also best to use distilled water for the mixture.

Graham

so as long as I have a coolant that says WSS M97B44 on the back and then mix it down to 50/50 distilled water I'm good to top it off? I saw one at auto-zone that was labeled M97B44-D. Is that the same thing? it's the only one that I saw with that specification. All the rest just go on about how they are approved for "all" cars...

Yes that is a Ford specification.
You can use that coolant.
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For amounts less than a quart you can just add water. If the weather is freezing then go for a drive right away to mix in the water. The exact mixture of antifreeze component to water is not critical. Anywhere from 60/40 one way to 60/40 the other way will work fine. I think the spec is 50/50 but it isn't precision chemistry.

You might want to bring the car in to have it looked at. It should still be under warranty. There are issues with the 5.0L water pumps leaking which might be why your are low on coolant.

I agree, especially if you've now topped off and get the warning light again. For a small amount of water added, it won't make much if any difference if it's tap water - besides, the fluoride might help the engine avoid cavities during the next check up.

If the system is in proper working order, you should experience very minimal if any loss of coolant.

Ditto

My low coolant message was coming on and I took it in. Turned outt the water pump was bad and had to be replaced. The car shouldn't be losing that much coolant already.

Unfortunately We can neither confirm or deny what should or shouldn't be...Because we don't know what type or year your car is...

FYI.....the 5.0 L engines had issues with leaking water pumps up till about mid year 2012.