My coolant level low light stays on and theres plenty of fluid in reservoir so I've purchased a new sensor...is there any shortcut to draining the reserve tank or do I need to drain the radiator? I have not removed the shroud below the radiator but assume theres a drain plug access...or is there?
Thanks for any advice!
JR

 

Try a syphon with a hose into a container large enough to collect all the fluid. Worth a try.

 

great idea...THANKS!!!

 

I thought the coolant level sensor wasattached tothe coolant reservoir. Why are you wanting to drain the radiator? My car is enroute to me here in Germany so I can't defend myself and go look at it, but I seem to recall when I had it replaced (before I found out how easy it would have been) it was part of the reservoir. Am I wrong?

 

Hey Kevin, You are right...the sensor is mounted at the bottom of the coolant reservoir...but has the equalization situation of syphoning from the radiator if this is well said. I have a'98 SLK230 ( forgot to mention in My post...sorry). I used my brand new oil syphone to remove just enough coolant and drop the old sensor out and snap the new one in with ease...THANKS AGAIN Drew!
JR

 

Rats! I had the same problem and was told that senor was integral to the coolant reservoir and has to buy the whole unit and have it installed. Stealership strikes again. [:'(] Oh well, you live and learn.

 

The sensor cost about $19.00US and I used My OVERTON'S toploader (which I just rec'dforMy oil change)to "suck all the coolant out of the reservoir...worked like a charm![sm=burnout.gif]
JR

 

Glad it worked! You are welcome!

 

you dont have to drain the coolant resivuar to change the level sensor. the sensor never even gets wet. its just a pick-up sensor that works with a magnet inside the coolant resivuar. just twist it and remove and replace it. you wont spill a drop because theres no opening in the sensor housing.