[Closed] Red engine coolant, Ford content.

I'd never top up with just water unless it was an emergency - you're just reducing the ability of the coolant to withstand frost and absorb heat.

It only needs a little bit probably less than 200ml. Will it really make much of an impact on the cooling ability?

No, just keep an eye on it. If you have to keep topping up then get some antifreeze

The red coolant is OAT - Organic Acid Technology coolant. I would top up with water is a small amount, but don't top up with non-OAT (i.e. blue) normal anti-freeze; they are not really compatible.

Also, if you are losing coolant, keep an eye out on the level and try to see where it is escaping. could be a nice, slow pressure leak from a borked header cap or it could be a holed radiator. Either way you might end up with HGF.

I don't think I'm loosing coolant. It has been in there for a good 4 years. I know I should probably change it but the engine stays at a constant temp when running so I'm waiting for the temp to creep up a bit before changing the whole lot.

changing the whole lot?
it sould just be a hose leak or a clip that has come loose no need to change the whole engine?

Personally I'd have just a coolant change carried out. Its not that much.

In addition- keep a daily eye on it (cold) and mark its level mentally.

I say this as mine started dropping- suddenly over two days it was an inch each day.

I caught the water pump before it let go completely.

The red coolant is OAT - Organic Acid Technology coolant.

You can get this ready mixed in small amounts for topping up.

suddenly over two days it was an inch each day

Mine has been less than that in the past 2 years.

Mine was a small amount for ages then suddenly within 2days the marked-loss.

Your within the recommended range now for a coolant change.