Coolant: Testing and Inspection

ON-VEHICLE INSPECTION





1. CHECK COOLING SYSTEM FOR LEAKS

NOTICE: Before each inspection, turn the A/C switch OFF.

CAUTION: Do not remove the radiator cap while the engine and radiator are still hot. Pressurized, hot engine coolant and steam may be released and cause serious burns.

(a) Fill the radiator with coolant and attach a radiator cap tester.
(b) Warm up the engine.
(c) Using a radiator cap tester, increase the pressure inside the radiator to 118 kPa (1.2 kgf/cm2, 17 psi), and check that the pressure does not drop.
If the pressure drops, check the hoses, radiator and water pump for leaks. If no external leaks are found, check the heater core, cylinder block and head.





2. CHECK ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL AT RESERVOIR
(a) Check that the engine coolant level is between the LOW and FULL lines when the engine is cold. If the engine coolant is low, check for leaks and add "TOYOTA Super Long Life Coolant" or similar high quality ethylene glycol based non-silicate, non-amino, non-nitrite and non-borate coolant with long-life hybrid organic acid technology to the FULL line.

NOTICE: Do not substitute plain water for engine coolant.

3. CHECK ENGINE COOLANT QUALITY
(a) Remove the radiator cap.

CAUTION: Do not remove the radiator cap while the engine and radiator are still hot. Pressurized, hot engine coolant and steam may be released and cause serious burns.

(b) Check if there are any excessive deposits of rust or scales around the radiator cap and radiator filler hole. Also, the coolant should be free of oil. If excessively dirty, clean the coolant passage and replace the coolant.
(c) Install the radiator cap.