Engine Coolant: Draining

WARNING: Do not remove reservoir tank cap when engine is hot. Serious burns could occur from high pressure engine coolant escaping the reservoir tank. Wrap a thick cloth around the cap. Slowly push down and turn it a quarter turn to allow built-up pressure to escape. Carefully remove the cap by pushing it down and turning it all the way.

Remove the front under cover. Refer to Removal and Installation .
Open radiator drain plug at the bottom of radiator, and then remove reservoir tank cap.
CAUTION:
Perform this step when the engine is cold.
Perform this step for heater core removal/replacement only. Disconnect the upper heater hose at the engine side and apply moderate air pressure [103.46 kPa (1.055 kg/cm2, 15 psi) maximum air pressure] into the hose for 30 seconds to blow the excess engine coolant out of the heater core.
When draining all of the engine coolant in the system, remove the reservoir tank and drain the engine coolant, then clean the reservoir tank before installation.
CAUTION:
Perform this step when engine is cold.
When draining all of the engine coolant in the system for engine removal or repair, remove water drain plug (1).

Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Check the drained engine coolant for contaminants such as rust, corrosion or discoloration. If the engine coolant is contaminated, flush the engine cooling system. Refer to Flushing .