Coolant Expansion Tank
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Coolant expansion tank filler cap |
| 2 | Bleed screw |
| 3 | Pipe connection - Engine vent hose |
| 4 | Pipe connection - Radiator |
| 5 | Minimum and maximum level markings |
| 6 | Pipe connection - Electric thermostat with heater element |
| 7 | Engine coolant level sensor |
The pressurized coolant expansion tank system continuously separates the air from the cooling system. A continuous vent into the coolant expansion tank through a hose connected to the engine prevents air locks from forming in the cooling system.
The coolant expansion tank is located in the front left of the engine compartment. A filler cap, a bleed screw and a level sensor are incorporated into the coolant expansion tank.
The coolant expansion tank provides the following functions:
- The service fill.
- Engine coolant expansion during warm up.
- Air separation during operation.
- System pressurization by the filler cap.
- Coolant level sensing.
The coolant expansion tank has an air space of approximately 0.5 to 1 liter (1.06 to 2.11 US pints). The coolant expansion tank allow for the engine coolant expansion if the coolant above the maximum level. Minimum and maximum level markings are molded on the coolant expansion tank body.
The engine coolant level sensor locates in a sealed cavity at the bottom of the coolant expansion tank body. A float with an integral magnet is located inside the coolant expansion tank. The coolant level sensor contains a switch that reacts to the position of the magnetic float. The coolant level sensor is hardwired to the Body Control Module/Gateway Module (BCM/GWM).
The magnetic float is designed to float very close to the bottom of the tank, significantly below the MIN cold fill coolant level. The magnetic float in this position does not indicate float failure, for example sinking or sticking. The float has a travel distance of approximately 15 mm (0.59 in) from the bottom of the tank.