On-Vehicle Inspection

INSPECT COOLING SYSTEM FOR LEAKS
CAUTION: To avoid the danger of being burned, do not remove the radiator cap while the engine and radiator are still hot. thermal expansion will cause hot engine coolant and steam to blow out from the radiator.
1. Fill the radiator with coolant and attach a radiator cap tester.
2. Warm up the engine.
3. Pump it to 118 kPa (1.2 kgf*cm, 17 psi), and check that the pressure does not drop.
  
  Fig 1: Checking Pressure Does Not Drop
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  
  If the pressure drops, check the hoses, radiator and water pump for leaks. If there are no signs or traces of external coolant leaks, check the heater core, cylinder block and head.
CHECK ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL AT RESERVOIR
1. The engine coolant should be between the "LOW" and "FULL" lines, when the engine is cold. If low, check for leaks and add "Toyota Long Life Coolant" or equivalent up to the "FULL" line.
  NOTE: Do not substitute plain water for engine coolant.
CHECK ENGINE COOLANT QUALITY
1. Remove the radiator cap.
  CAUTION: To avoid the danger of being burned, do not remove the radiator cap while the engine and radiator are still hot. Thermal expansion will cause hot engine coolant and steam to blow out from the radiator.
2. Check if there are any excessive deposits of rust or scales around the radiator cap and radiator filler hole; the coolant should be free of oil.
  HINT:
  
  If excessively dirty, replace the coolant.
3. Reinstall the radiator cap.