Quick question on coolant-

[O5Q45]

I had a new radiator put in almost a year ago. I bought A new radiator, thermostat, and put Genuine Nissan Fluid 999MP-AF000P Green L248SP Engine Coolant - 1 Gallon in the car. I bought this and put it in November 9, 2016-
Last week I noticed the reservoir was not at its normal level in the morning. I’ve watched it for over a week and it has remained below the minimum. I added water from the faucet. I know we have great water because I test it often for water exchange on my aquariums.

Will the water I added to make the level in between min and max be ok and mix with the rest of the coolant? I imagine it is still good for winter? Also, could I switch to the blue?

[Q451990]

The mix should be fine. I'd stick with distilled water when possible. Good for fish, and good for cars may be different things... that said, you didn't add much - so I wouldn't let that prompt a full flush and fill just for that. I'll have to look at the blue stuff again. When it first came out, I seem to remember Nissan recommended that on vehicles that came with it, to switch to the green stuff at the first replacement. I'm not sure on that though...

[amc49]

I'd be careful with that, an antifreeze gauge can show a marked raising of the freeze temp with not much coolant change of straight water. I see no geographical location there but if up north you might be asking for it. Best to check for that before you get locked into the cold.............you can get the testers for as little as $5.

I too have never ever used distilled water in either coolant or battery and for 40+ years now.

[Q451990]

He's in NC. Cold by my standards in SC, but not really cold. Good advice on using a test kit to be sure though.

[EdBwoy]

What's the blue coolant you're referring to?

I usually use the Prestone green coolant from Walmart or the auto parts store.
At 82 cents per gallon jug for distilled water, I don't even chance with tap water no matter how good it is. But again, I don't have an aquarium that requires testing.
What I'll tell you about all the VK45DE coolant tubes I've looked at is that they seem to like crudding up at the clamped joints. I prefer to reduce the chances of this continuing so I default to best practice.

*Out of curiosity, on your main issue - did you happen to check the coolant reservoir with the engine hot or was this usually before driving?

[O5Q45]

This is usually when I come out in the morning to leave for work. I always pop the hood and pull the dipstick for oil level and look into the coolant reservoir. So, I assume that’s the level after driving the day before..

The blue coolant I am talking about is the Nissan Blue long-life 100,000 mile coolant. This is what comes in Nissans vehicles now. I asked because I know there are a few different types of coolant and hybrid versions.. supposedly, if you mix the two the blue coolant looses its ability to last for the duration of 100,000 miles.. also, the blue is already mixed with water and is ready for use right out of the jug. I didn’t get it last time because of the cost. The blue coolant seems to get excellent reviews on Amazon.. all 5 stars from 60 some people. It’s listed as ; Genuine Nissan Fluid 999MP-L25500P Blue Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant - 1 Gallon.
I only added maybe 5 cups of water. However I’ll still test it’s strength. I actually live very close to the Tennessee/North Carolina border on the Tennessee side in Johnson City. I remember last winter we had several nights of 8-10 degrees. I drive across the border daily into NC for work and climb the 3400ft of elevation on I-26 over Sams Gap and it is a different world up there at least weather wise. It takes its toll on the Q as far as brakes and such.. I found the slotted rotors and Akebono (sp?) pads work the best without warping any... anyways off topic as usual- thanks for the replies-

[EdBwoy]

I asked about the reservoir because I think it breathes. Compare the level before and after a run

[O5Q45]

Ok will do- it’s the most simple reservoir I’ve ever had. The most simple black cap on top.. I can easily squeeze the hoses and hear the fluid inside going back and forth... when not hot of course