Cooling System Draining, Filling and Bleeding: Draining
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Mercury Mariner and 2010 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
WARNING:
Always allow the engine to cool before opening the cooling system. Do not unscrew the coolant pressure relief cap when the engine is operating or the cooling system is hot. The cooling system is under pressure; steam and hot liquid can come out forcefully when the cap is loosened slightly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.
NOTE:
The coolant must be recovered in a suitable, clean container for reuse. If the coolant is contaminated, it must be recycled or disposed of correctly. Using contaminated coolant may result in damage to the engine or cooling system components.
NOTE:
The engine cooling system is filled with Motorcraft® Premium Gold Engine Coolant. Mixing coolant types degrades the corrosion protection of Motorcraft® Premium Gold Engine Coolant.
NOTE:
The addition of Cooling System Stop Leak Pellets darkens Motorcraft® Premium Gold Engine Coolant from yellow to golden tan.
NOTE:
Less than 80% of coolant capacity can be recovered with the engine in the vehicle. Dirty, rusty or contaminated coolant requires replacement.
All vehicles
- With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
- Release the pressure in the cooling system by slowly turning the pressure relief cap one-half turn counterclockwise. When the pressure is released, remove the pressure relief cap.
2.5L
- Remove the retainers and the LH splash shield.
3.0L
- Remove the retainers and the RH splash shield.
All vehicles
- Place a suitable container below the radiator draincock.
- Open the draincock and allow to drain.
- Close the draincock after draining.
2.5L
- Install the LH splash shield and the retainers.
3.0L
- Install the RH splash shield and the retainers.