How to check and refill coolant in 2019 Volksawgen Atlas, by Brandon 360 on YouTube. 1 min 54 s.
- Video length
- 1 min 54 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Park on a level surface and let the engine cool completely. Never open the coolant reservoir cap while the engine is hot, because pressurized hot coolant can spray out and burn you.
Open the hood and find the coolant reservoir. It is a translucent plastic tank with a cap marked with a coolant symbol, usually near the front of the engine bay.
Check the level against the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the tank. With a cold engine the level should sit between the two marks.
If the level is at or below MIN, look for leaks or cracks around the tank and hoses before adding anything.
Confirm the right coolant in your owner's manual. The Atlas needs a coolant that meets VW's specification, so match the type before you buy or pour.
Slowly unscrew the reservoir cap and set it aside. Lay a rag around the opening to catch drips.
Place a funnel in the reservoir and pour coolant in small amounts until the level reaches the MAX mark. Do not overfill.
Refit the cap and tighten it fully. Wipe up any spilled coolant, since it is slippery and toxic to pets.
Start the engine and let it run a few minutes, then switch off and let it cool. Recheck the level and top up if it dropped.
Tips and common mistakes
Check coolant only on a cold engine, since the level rises when warm and the cap is dangerous to open hot.
Use only coolant that meets the VW spec for your Atlas, and never mix different coolant types.
A level that keeps dropping points to a leak, so have a mechanic pressure-test the system.
Store leftover coolant sealed and out of reach of children and pets.
Questions
Can I just add water if the coolant is low?
Only in an emergency. Plain water dilutes the mix and lowers freeze and boil protection, so top up with the correct coolant as soon as you can.
How often should I check the coolant?
Check it at least once a month and before long trips. Look at the level whenever you check the oil.
What color is the coolant in a 2019 Atlas?
Color varies by coolant type and is not a reliable guide. Match the specification in your owner's manual instead of going by color.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
