Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Operator's Manual page 301

Practical hints
What to do if ...
Problem
D
The red coolant warning lamp
comes on when the engine is
running.
D
The red coolant warning lamp
comes on while driving and you
hear a warning sound.
Warning!
Driving when your engine is badly overheat-
ed can cause some fluids which may have
leaked into the engine compartment to
300
Possible cause
There is insufficient coolant in the reservoir.
If this warning lamp comes on frequently,
there is a leak in the cooling system.
If the coolant level is correct, the electric
radiator fan may be broken.
The coolant temperature has exceeded
248°F (120°C).
G
catch fire. You could be seriously burned.
Steam from an overheated engine can cause
serious burns and can occur just by opening
the engine hood. Stay away from the engine
if you see or hear steam coming from it.
Suggested solution
Immediately add coolant to prevent
engine from overheating
( page 249).
Have the cooling system checked by
an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
If the coolant temperature is below
248°F (120°C), you can continue
driving to the nearest authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center.
Avoid high engine loads (e.g. driving
uphill) and stop-and-go driving.
Stop as soon as possible and allow
the engine and coolant to cool down.
Turn off the engine, get out of the vehicle
and do not stand near the vehicle until the
engine has cooled down.