When you start up your semi truck's engine, you may notice that your coolant sensor is detecting a low level. If so, use the following three tips to determine what is causing the problem with your radiator fluid.

Wait Until The Engine Is Cool To Check The Level

The first thing you may want to do when your coolant sensor is detecting a low level is to let the engine cool off before visually checking it. While the engine is still hot, the increase in temperature and pressure will make the fluid rise. You cannot get an accurate reading until the engine has cooled and the coolant is back down to its true level.

Once the engine is cool, check the level. If your truck has the right amount of coolant, the sensor itself may be malfunctioning. In this case, it may need to be replaced. However, if the level is low and coolant was just added, you may have another issue.

Look For Radiator Coolant On The Ground

If your radiator coolant level is low, first look under the cab of your truck to see if there are any fresh pools of the liquid underneath. If so, there may be two possible reasons for this. First, your radiator may have a leak in it. Second, one of your radiator hoses may have come loose.

Look under the hood, and wiggle the hoses to see if they move. If so, use a screwdriver to tighten the hose clamps, then start your truck to see if any coolant is leaking out. If not, this was most likely the issue.

If not, look at the radiator to see if any coolant is spewing out the sides. If so, you will need to have a professional replace it.

Check Your Oil Dipstick For Signs Of Coolant

If there is no pool of coolant under your truck but the levels are still low, check your oil dipstick while the engine is cool. If the oil appears to be a color close to a chocolate milkshake, the fluid may be leaking into your oil.

This is a sign that your engine has blown a head gasket. If this is the case, you should take your truck to a repair shop like Jason's Auto Repair immediately, as this is a serious sign that your engine may be ready to give out completely.

If you find any of the above possible issues with your radiator fluid, your truck should be looked at by a professional. You may want to find a nearby semi truck repair shop as soon as possible so they can fully diagnose the problem and fix it before you head back down the highway.