It's the 'clear' one. The blue fluid is below the minimum level and there is no indication that I can see as to what this fluid is for:



Thanks muchly.

Zip

 

That's the expansion tank for the engine coolant. Did it just recently get low? Judging from the crust on the tank underneath the sticker, it looks like you might have a small leak (which those tanks are prone to do).

 

Thanks for the quick reply. I didnt clean it for the picture because I figured I'd leave it the way I found it to provide some clue. Nothing else in the engine compartment has that kind of stain on it.

Next question: what type and/or brand(s) of coolant can I fill it with until I have it looked at?

Zip

 

Is it below the Min level when warm?

 

Well, if the tank isn't bone-dry, and you're just needing to top it off, you can use distilled water. If you want to use coolant, I'd pick up a bottle of the MINI-specific stuff at the dealer. There are so many differences in factory coolants these days that I don't even mess with trying to find a compatible/equivalent aftermarket brand.

 

I just came home and parked it. The level is now a little higher than it was, but not quite up to minimum, although close.

I have to believe there is a commercial equivalent antifreeze out there for this car.

Zip

 

I'm sure you're right. I just don't know which commercial coolants are compatible, and the owner's manual is no help - it just says to ask your dealer.

 

i doubt there is a specially formulated coolant just for the MINI... i mean sure its a wonderful and unique car... but if MINI says you have to use their coolant, thats just so their pockets get fatter.

 

They also say you have to use their oil and windshield washing fluid because otherwise the engine will seize and your windshild will shatter :impatient

 

Prestone has one that is marked, all makes all models.

 

If the liquid level begins to show when the engine is warm, simply fill it to about midway between the MIN and MAX levels when the engine is cold with some distilled water. Double-check the operation of the engine cooling fan by running the a/c when parked with the hood open. The engine fan should cycle on and off while the a/c is running. The reason for this quick check is to ensure there has been no fan failures, which is common on the cars. A fan failure will cause intermittent hot running when the vehicle is stopped, and will eventually boil over if sitting in traffic for a length of time.