2002 Explorer Coolant question

[southexp]

I have an 02 Explorer XLS and I noticed a funny smell burning from the engine the other day. The vehicle started to run a little hot this morning so I parked it and checked to see that there is no coolant in the reservoir and I assume it was coolant leaking that I was smelling. In the bottom of the reservoir there is just a tiny amount of fluid left and it appears clear in color. What should be my steps to diagnose this problem? Which type of coolant should I add back?

 

[Josef161]

I always use prestone (it's the yellow one that a lot of people use).

It could be something very simple like the coolant reservoir cap. Next time when you drove your explorer for >10 miles you could open the bonnet and see if you can find some water on a hose or at the reservoir, also check below the explorer if you can see a pile of coolant.