Good morning all,

I have had my 2005 XK8 for about 6 weeks now. This morning the Low Engine Coolant light came on for about 10 - 15 seconds and then went off. I watched the temperature guage and it is solid at the halfway mark and hasn't changed a bit.

Was that a warning that I need to add some coolant, or that it may be getting low? Or would the warning have stayed on if more coolant is needed?

Any recommendations on which type to use? Do you know what they use at the dealerships?

Thank you.
Tom

 

Without being silly, I'd say have a look in the expansion tank!
The temperature gauge is non linear and by the time it's got into the red so has your bank balance.
If the level is low check the hoses
There are two problems with the expansion tank- the tank can split and the level sensor can stick.
Both are covered in either this forum or XK8/XKR.
Don't do nothing, it needs sorting.

 

You can safely top up a few ounces with distilled water from a supernarket or pharmacy.

If you do not see an obvious leak, a cooling system pressure test is a wise diagnostic investment to locate the leak before it gets more serious.

As Steve said, these cars can warn of overheating only once it occurs...which potentially can be costly.

 

The sensor is very high in the neck, so if you are just a little bit low and the sensor is exposed, it will signal coolant low warning. Then warning will disappear when submerged. Usually adding a very liitle bit of coolant, like a cup or two will eliminate warning. You shoild, however, have pressure test to make sure there is no real leak. I am having one done today as i can smell a leak even though there is no dripping under the car. I am losing about a cup of coolant every couple of weeks triggering warning light.

 

You'll find lots of threads and posts on Coolant Level Sensor and overheating. Many of these will eventually bring you back to WhiteXKR.

Check his website for some very valuable information on V8 coolant level and temperature gauge.

Graham