1994 Geo Metro - Coolant Overflow Tank And Reservoir

What is the Coolant Recovery Tank?

The coolant recovery tank in your vehicle is responsible for collecting any coolant, also called antifreeze, that expands and overflows from the radiator. As the cooling system heats up, the coolant volume can expand and build excessive pressure. When this happens, the radiator cap or other pressure valve can vent excess coolant volume to send it to the coolant reservoir or tank. Depending on the vehicle, this tank may be connected to the radiator or another part of the cooling systems by a single hose, or by several hoses that are designed to receive and return coolant. After the coolant temperature has dropped, often after the vehicle has cooled down, it is recycled back into the radiator to be used in the cooling system the next time your vehicle runs. This not only limits coolant loss to evaporation, but also prevents low coolant levels and engine overheating. Coolant recovery tanks are marked with fluid level indicators, allowing you to see exactly how much coolant is in the tank. There may also be multiple markings for determining the appropriate coolant level in the reservoir depending on whether the cooling system is cold or hot. If you notice fluid leaking from your car, or are having to refill your coolant more often than normal, you might have a leak in your coolant recovery tank. Over time, your plastic coolant recovery tank can crack, overheat, or fail due to a broken or worn cap that allows coolant vapors to escape. Coolant recovery tanks are important parts of your vehicle's coolant system and should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent low coolant levels and overheating. If it's time to replace or repair your coolant recovery tank, or if you need to refill your vehicle's antifreeze levels, shop O'Reilly Auto Parts to find universal and application-specific coolant recovery tanks, radiator hoses, coolant tank caps, and antifreeze for most makes and models.