# Coolant problem? **URL:** \ **Category:** Maintenance/Repairs\ **Created:** [June 12, 2007, 5:05am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/coolant-problem/491 "2007-06-12T05:05:23Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 3\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![MAK337](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/m/258eb7/32.png) [@MAK337](https://community.cartalk.com/u/MAK337)\ **Post date:** [June 12, 2007, 5:05am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/coolant-problem/491/1 "2007-06-12T05:05:23Z")
Does anyone have any idea why the coolant level in the radiator reservoir in my '97 Honda Civic keeps rising above the max line? (I’ve been checking the level when the engine’s cold.) I mean,is this a warning sign of a problem or normal operation? The coolant looks clear, looks fine, and the car is running smooth. ---
**Author:** ![Joseph\_E\_Meehan](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/cartalk/user_avatar/community.cartalk.com/joseph_e_meehan/32/21_2.png) [@Joseph\_E\_Meehan](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Joseph_E_Meehan)\ **Post date:** [June 12, 2007, 9:24am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/coolant-problem/491/2 "2007-06-12T09:24:24Z")
Changes in temperature of the engine will change the level. Going over the full mark is not a problem, unless it is somehow is going higher and higher, which is not likely unless oil is getting in there. Check you oil to make sure it is at the right level and looks normal. ---
**Author:** ![SteveF](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/cartalk/user_avatar/community.cartalk.com/stevef/32/2_2.png) [@SteveF](https://community.cartalk.com/u/SteveF)\ **Post date:** [June 12, 2007, 12:01pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/coolant-problem/491/3 "2007-06-12T12:01:34Z")
It is possible that a malfunctioning radiator cap is impeding the return flow. When the engine is cold, remove the cap and examine the level in the radiator itself. If less than full, replace the cap.