Pinpoint Test A: Loss Of Coolant

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Mercury Milan, 2011 Lincoln MKZ, and 2011 Ford Fusion. 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.

A1 CARRY OUT INSPECTION AND VERIFICATION
- Carry out the INSPECTION AND VERIFICATION procedure in this service information.
- Were any concerns found?
Yes

REPAIR as needed. TEST the system for normal operation.

No

GO to A2 .
A2 CHECK THE ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL
NOTE: Allow the engine to cool before checking the engine coolant level.
- Ignition OFF.
- Visually inspect the engine coolant level at the degas bottle.
- Is the engine coolant level within specifications?
YES

GO to A3 .

No

ADJUST the engine coolant level as necessary. GO to A3 .
A3 PRESSURE TEST THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
- Pressure test the engine cooling system. Refer to COMPONENT TESTS , COOLING SYSTEM PRESSURE TEST in this service information.
- Does the engine cooling system leak externally?
YES

REPAIR or INSTALL new components. TEST the system for normal operation.

No

GO to A4 .
A4 CHECK THE ENGINE COOLANT FOR AN INTERNAL LEAK
- Inspect the engine coolant in the degas bottle for signs of engine oil.
- Is engine oil evident in the coolant?
YES

If engine oil is evident, GO to ENGINE SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION article for engine diagnosis.

No

GO to A5 .
A5 CHECK THE ENGINE OIL FOR COOLANT
- Remove the oil level indicator from the engine.
- Is coolant evident in the oil?
YES

If coolant is in the engine oil, GO to ENGINE SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION article.

No

GO to A6 .
A6 CHECK THE COOLING SYSTEM FOR COMBUSTION GASES
NOTE: Use UView® Combustion Leak Tester, part No. UVU560000-R or equivalent.

Using a cooling system combustion gas leak tester, following the instructions supplied with the tester, check the coolant for combustion gases.

Are combustion gases present?

YES

GO to ENGINE SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION article for engine diagnosis.

No

The cooling system is operational.