ENGINE COOLANT
Check the level of the coolant in the
reservoir at least once a month. Be
sure to read and understand
Precautions when servicing your
vehiclein this chapter.
If the engine coolant has not been checked for a long period of time, the
engine coolant reservoir may eventually empty. If this occurs, add engine
coolant to the coolant reservoir. For more information on engine coolant
maintenance, refer toAdding engine coolantin this chapter.
Automotive fluids are not interchangeable; do not use engine coolant,
antifreeze or windshield washer fluid outside of its specified function and
vehicle location.
Adding engine coolant
Do not put engine coolant in the container for the windshield
washer fluid.
If sprayed on the windshield, engine coolant could make it difficult to see
through the windshield.
When the engine is cool, add a 50/50 mixture of engine coolant and
water to the engine coolant recovery reservoir-DO NOT ADD DIRECTLY
TO THE RADIATOR. Add straight water only in an emergency, but you
should replace it with a 50/50 mixture of coolant and distilled water as
soon as possible.
Check the coolant level in the coolant recovery reservoir the next few
times you drive the vehicle. If necessary, add enough of a 50/50 mixture
of coolant and water to bring the liquid level to the fill line on the
reservoir.
Maintenance and care
130
Severe winter climate
If you drive in extremely cold climates (less than ±36ÉC [±34ÉF]), it may
be necessary to increase the coolant concentration above 50%. Refer to
the chart on the coolant container to ensure the coolant concentration in
your vehicle is such that the coolant will not freeze at the temperature
level in which you drive during winter months. Never increase the engine
coolant concentration above 60%. Leave a 50/50 mixture of engine
coolant and water in your vehicle year-round in non-extreme climates.
CHECKING AND ADDING POWER STEERING FLUID
Check the power steering fluid at
least twice a year. If adding fluid is
necessary, use only MERCONtAT F
power steering fluid.
1. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches normal operating
temperature (the engine coolant temperature gauge will be near the
center of the NORMAL band).
2. While the engine idles, turn the steering wheel left and right several
times.
3. Turn the engine off.
4. Check the fluid level in the
reservoir. It should be between the
MIN and MAX lines. Do not add
fluid if the level is in this range.
5. If the fluid is low, add fluid in small amounts, continuously checking
the level until it reaches the range between the MIN and MAX lines. Be
sure to put the cap back on the reservoir.
DONOTOVERFILLPOWERSTEERINGFLUID
MAX
MIN
Maintenance and care
132