Checking Coolant
The coolant surge tank and pressure cap are
located on the driver’s side of the vehicle, toward
the rear of the engine compartment. See
Engine Compartment Overview on page 356for
more information on location.
{CAUTION:
Turning the surge tank pressure cap when
the engine and radiator are hot can allow
steam and scalding liquids to blow out
and burn you badly. Never turn the surge
tank pressure cap — even a little — when
the engine and radiator are hot.
The vehicle must be on a level surface. When
your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at
the FULL COLD/FROID line on the side of the
surge tank. Follow the arrow from the top of
the tank down the side to the horizontal mark.
370
If No Steam Is Coming From Your
Engine
An overheat warning, can indicate a serious
problem.
If you get an engine overheat warning but see or
hear no steam, the problem might not be too
serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too
hot when you:
Climb a long hill on a hot day.
Stop after high-speed driving.
Idle for long periods in traffic.
Tow a trailer.
If you get the overheat warning with no sign of
steam, try this for a minute or so:
1. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in
NEUTRAL (N) while stopped. If it is safe to
do so, pull off the road, shift to PARK (P)
or NEUTRAL (N) and let the engine idle.
2. Set the climate controls to the highest heat
setting and fan speed and open the windows,
as necessary.If the coolant warning light is not on or the coolant
temperature gage does not indicate the engine
is overheating, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive
slower for about 10 minutes. If the warnings do
not come back on, drive normally.
If the warnings continue and you have not stopped,
pull over, stop, and park the vehicle right away.
If there is still no sign of steam, idle the engine for
three minutes while parked. If the warnings are
still indicated, turn off the engine and get everyone
out of the vehicle until it cools down. Also, see
“Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode”
later in this section.
You might decide not to lift the hood but to get
service help right away.
373
Overheated Engine Protection
Operating Mode
This operating mode allows your vehicle to be
driven to a safe place in an emergency. Should an
hot engine condition exist, an overheat protection
mode which alternates ring groups of cylinders
helps prevent engine damage. In this mode, there is
a loss in power and engine performance. Driving
extended miles (km) and/or towing a trailer in the
overheat protection mode should be avoided.
Notice:After driving in the overheated engine
protection operating mode, to avoid engine
damage, allow the engine to cool before
attempting any repair. The engine oil will be
severely degraded. Repair the cause of coolant
loss and change the oil. SeeEngine Oil on
page 360.
Cooling System
When you decide it is safe to lift the hood, here is
what you will see:
A. Electric Engine Cooling Fans
B. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap
Some vehicles may be equipped with an
engine driven fan, as well as the electric
pusher fans (A) which are located behind the
vehicle’s grille.
3.6L V6 shown, 4.6L V8 similar
374