Draining Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Pontiac G5 and 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: View Of Surge Tank Cap

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

WARNING: To avoid being burned, do not remove the radiator cap or surge tank cap while the engine is hot. The cooling system will release scalding fluid and steam under pressure if radiator cap or surge tank cap is removed while the engine and radiator are still hot.

Remove the surge tank cap.
Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
Place a drain pan under the right side lower radiator mount.

Fig 2: View Of Radiator Drain Cock

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Open the radiator drain cock.
Drain the cooling system.

Fig 3: Identifying Water Pump Drain Plug

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

If a complete block drain is required, place a drain pan under the water pump drain.
Remove the water pump drain plug (1).
Drain the cooling system.
Inspect the appearance of the engine coolant for discoloration:
- Discolored-Follow the flush procedure. Refer to Coolant System Flushing .
- Normal in appearance-Follow the filling procedure.