Checking Coolant

WARNING: The cooling system is pressurized when the engine is warm. When opening the expansion tank, wear gloves and other appropriate protection, cover the cap with a cloth and open carefully to relieve system pressure slowly.

Note:
A new "G12 " coolant additive, recognized by its red color, has been introduced during MY. 1997, replacing the "G11" used previously.
The "G11" and "G12" coolant additives are NOT interchangeable, and must NEVER be mixed. Use only water or "G12" coolant additive G 012A8D A1 to top up cooling systems filled with "G12."
Contamination of "G12" with other coolants can be identified by discoloration (brown, purple, etc.), and foamy deposits in the radiator or expansion tank. If contaminated, the system must be drained and flushed immediately.
"G12" (Part No. G 012 A8D A1) may also be used in older vehicles, but only if the cooling system is drained and flushed as described below
Part numbers listed are for reference only Always check with the Parts Department for the latest information.

CHECKING COOLANT
- Check concentration of coolant additives.
- Anti-freeze protection must be approx. -25°C (-1°F) for the US, and -35°C (-31°F) for Canada.
- For anti-freeze protection down to approx. -40°C (-40°F), the percentage of anti-freeze may be increased up to 60%. The percentage of anti-freeze must not exceed 60%, as higher amounts will decrease frost protection and cooling capacity.
- If anti-freeze protection is not adequate, drain off the quantity indicated in the following table and top up with coolant anti-freeze.





NOTE: Observe prescribed disposal instructions!

- After test drive, check coolant concentration again.
- Check coolant level in expansion tank with engine cold.
- With engine cold, the coolant level must be between the min. and max. markings of the reservoir. With engine warm, the level may be slightly above the max. marking.
- If the coolant level is too low but the antifreeze protection is adequate, add required amount according to the following mixing ratios:

^ Freezing protection down to: -25°C (-13°F)

- Anti-freeze amounts:
40 % - 2.6 liters (2.75 US qts.).
- Water amounts:
60 % - 3.9 liters (4.10 US qts.).

^ Freezing protection down to: -35°C (-31°F)

- Anti-freeze amounts:
50 % - 3.25 liters (3.4 US qts.).
- Water amounts:
50 % - 3.25 liters (3.4 US qts.).

^ Freezing protection down to: -40 °C (-40°F)

- Anti-freeze amounts:
60 % - 3.9 liters (4.10 US qts.).
- Water amounts:
40 % - 2.6 liters (2.75 US qts.).