Parts
- Antifreeze concentrate (7.25 L (manual) / 7.5 L (automatic), 50% OAT antifreeze)
- Hoses & clips (if needed) (replace any soft, swollen or cracked hoses)
Tools
- Drain tray
- Garden hose
- Screwdrivers
- Hydrometer or refractometer
Step by step
- Work on a cold engine only. Remove the expansion tank or radiator cap slowly.
- Open the radiator drain (or remove the bottom hose) and the cylinder block drain tap or plug. Set the heater to hot.
- Flush with clean water until it runs clear. Squeeze every hose: replace any that feel soft, crunchy or swollen.
- Check the radiator fins, fan blades and (where fitted) the viscous coupling. A viscous fan should turn with some resistance when the engine is warm.
- Refill with a 50% antifreeze mix (7.25 L (manual) / 7.5 L (automatic), 50% OAT antifreeze). Fill slowly to avoid air locks; on coil-sprung models use the bleed screw on the thermostat housing or radiator top where fitted.
- Run the engine to working temperature with the cap off (or loose), top up as the level drops, refit the cap and check again when cold.
