216 Maintenance
coolant recovery reservoir when the engine is cool. Add the
proper mixture of coolant and water to the “FULL COLD”
level. For all other vehicles which have a coolant degas system
with a pressurized cap, or if it is necessary to remove the cool-
ant pressure relief cap on the radiator of a vehicle with an
overflow system, follow these steps to add engine coolant.
MAKE SURE the engine is cool before unscrewing the
coolant pressure relief cap.
REASON: The cooling system is under pressure; steam
and hot liquid can come out forcefully when the cap is
loosened slightly, causing serious bodily injury.
Add the proper mixture of coolant and water to the cooling
system by following these steps:
1. Before you begin, turn the engine off and let it cool.
2. When the engine is cool, wrap a thick cloth around the
coolant pressure relief cap on the coolant reservoir (a
translucent plastic bottle). Slowly turn cap counterclock-
wise (left) until pressure begins to release.
3. Step back while the pressure releases.
4. When you are sure that all the pressure has been released,
use the cloth to turn it counterclockwise and remove the
cap.
5. Fill the coolant reservoir slowly with the proper coolant
mixture, to within the “COLD FILL RANGE” or the
“FULL COLD” level on the reservoir. If you removed the
radiator cap in an overflow system, fill the radiator until
the coolant is visible and radiator is almost full.
6. Replace the cap. Turn until tightly installed. Cap must be
tightly installed to prevent coolant loss.
After any coolant has been added, check the coolant concen-
tration. Refer to Checking Engine Coolant on page 214. If the
concentration is not 50/50 (protection to –34°F/–36°C), drain
some coolant and adjust the concentration. It may take several
drains and additions to obtain a 50/50 coolant concentration.
Whenever coolant has been added, the coolant level in the
coolant reservoir should be checked the next few times you
drive the vehicle. If necessary, add enough 50/50 concentra-
tion of engine coolant and distilled water to bring the liquid
level to the proper level.
CAUTION:
If you have to add more than 1.0 quart (1.0
liter) of engine coolant per month, have your authorized
dealer check the engine cooling system. Your cooling system
may have a leak.
REASON: Operating an engine with a low level of
coolant can result in engine overheating and possible engine
damage.
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