Draining and Filling Cooling System: Refilling
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Chevrolet Malibu. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Close the radiator drain cock.
- If previously removed, install the engine block drain plugs.
When installing the drain plugs, use pipe sealer GM P/N 12346004.
Important: Open the coolant air bleed valve. The coolant air bleed valve is located on the top of the thermostat bypass pipe/heater pipe assembly. Close the valve once a continuous stream of coolant is expelled from the valve.
- Fill the surge tank to the base of the filler neck.
- Start the engine with the pressure cap off. Run the engine until the upper radiator hose starts to get hot.
- If the coolant level in the surge tank is low, add the proper mix of coolant until the level reaches the full cold line.
Important: After servicing the cooling system, and if the vehicle is equipped with an intermittent low coolant light, an occasional low coolant light may be encountered during some extreme driving maneuvers. This complaint should be eliminated by removing the surge tank cap and adding coolant to a level just at or above the full cold line when the system is cold.
- Install the cap onto the tank with hand tight pressure.