FixVault

Section 460 (Engine Cooling System): Coolant: Replacement

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Toyota RAV4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION: To avoid the danger of being burned, do not remove the radiator cap while the engine and radiator are still hot, as fluid and steam can be blown out under pressure.
  1. Drain engine coolant  .
    1. Remove the radiator cap.
    2. Loosen the radiator drain plug (on the left side of the radiator lower tank) and engine drain plug, and drain the coolant.
      Fig 1: Locating Engine & Radiator Drain Plug
      G01091667Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    3. Close the drain plugs.
      1. Torque: 5 N.m (50 kgf.cm, 43 in..lbf) for engine 
  2. Fill engine coolant  .
    1. Slowly fill the system with coolant.
      • Use of improper coolants may damage engine cooling system.
      • Use "Toyota Long Life Coolant" or equivalent and mix it with plain water according to the manufacturer's directions.
      • Using coolant which includes more than 50 % [freezing protection down to - 35°C (-31°F)] or 60 % [freezing protection down to -50°C (-58°F)] of ethylene- glycol is recommended but not more than 70 %.
        NOTE:
        • Do not use an alcohol type coolant or plain water alone.
        • The coolant should be mixed with plain water (preferably demineralized water or distilled water).
        Coolant Capacity (W/ Heater)

        Transmission Capacity
        M/T 6.3 liters (6.7 US qts, 5.6 Imp. qts)
        A/T 6.2 liters (6.6 US qts, 5.6 Imp. qts)
      • Reinstall the radiator cap.
      • Start the engine, and bleed the cooling system.
      • Refill the radiator reservoir with coolant until it reaches the "F" line.
    2. Check engine coolant for leaks  .
    3. Check engine coolant specific gravity correctly  .