Coolant level

[paulhastings]

So this is a little puzzling to me. On our recent road trip to Monterey in my '07 Exige, I thought I smelled coolant a couple of times just briefly as we were driving up the coast. Upon arrival, after the car was completely cool, I looked underneath a saw just a few drops on the undertray. It was getting dark so I assumed it was coolant as there was no water around. The coolant level in the reservoir looked a little low. Perhaps some drops came out of the overflow? During the week in Monterey, I didn't notice any coolant level changes so ruled out any sort of leak. Temperatures seemed to be consistent so not much else there. Figured I could have it checked at the dealer.

Since returning I have checked the car twice while sitting in my garage without previously running. My garage does get warm in the afternoons. Yesterday it was probably mid 80's in my garage when I thougth I would have a look. The coolant level is actually close to the full line. Now the difference between the two levels I am referring is probably an inch or slightly more. Is it that sensitive to temperature? For sure the temperatures in Monterey in the afternoon and evenings are cooler but, even after a short drive in Montery it wasn't as high as it is now. All seems fine and the temperatures have not done anything abnormal. They do rise at stop lights and parking lots but, cool back down as you get moving. Alway's been this way.