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I have an 02 Civic EX and it is impossible to see the coolant level inside the reservoir. I can see the molded indentions on the reservoir that read min (minimum) and max but with a 50 50 mix of coolant and water I can't even see the coolant. I have been getting a reading the only way possible with a flexible rod that I stick inside into the coolant reservoir to get it wet then guess at where the coolant level is. My question is what do you do that I don't or is everyone experiencing the same problem with reading the coolant level? Thanks!!!
p.s. My very First post!

 
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You can remove the battery to check. It'll give you more room to look. Also check at night with a flashlight.

 
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Yeah, they kinda suck to see.

I use a strong flashlight.
Take the cap off the reservoir and shine it inside if necessary.
Wiggle the reservoir, see the liquid move.

No sense in pulling a battery out, this is supposed to be simple.

 
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you can add some food coloring hahaha

 
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Mine has coloring... It is Type II blue.

Yes to the flashlight. Don't leave home without it.

 
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I quess my reservoir might be a different type of plastic because shining a maglight inside don't help. I will keep my trusted rod handy and continue to wonder why the Japenese designed it this way. Thanks to you all!!!

 
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Dark colored coating all over the inside of the bottle?

 
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No, just some discoloring from 10 years of use and 217,000 miles. The reservoir upper necks on these 2002's are really crooked too.

 
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I have the same issue with my 2006 Civic, so I usually stick a flexible reading light thingie down there so I can get a better look. The reservoir is just way too opaque to see through otherwise...