Checking Coolant
The surge tank is located on the driver’s
side of the engine compartment. SeeEngine
Compartment Overview on page 314for 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 COLD FILL line. When your engine is
warm, the level should be at the COLD FILL line or
a little higher.
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1. You can remove the coolant surge tank
pressure cap when the cooling system,
including the coolant surge tank pressure cap
and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.
Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise
about one-quarter of a turn.
If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop.
This will allow any pressure still left to be
vented out the discharge hose.
2. Then keep turning the pressure cap slowly,
and remove it.3. Fill the coolant surge tank with the proper
DEX-COOL®coolant mixture, to the COLD
FILL line.
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4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off,
start the engine and let it run until you can
feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch
out for the engine cooling fan.
By this time, the coolant level inside the
coolant surge tank may be lower. If the level
is lower, add more of the proper DEX-COOL
®
coolant mixture to the coolant surge tank
until the level reaches the COLD FILL line.
5. Then replace the pressure cap. Be sure the
pressure cap is hand-tight.Check the level in the surge tank when the cooling
system has cooled down. If the coolant is not
at the proper level, repeat Steps 1 through 3 and
reinstall the pressure cap. If the coolant still is
not at the proper level when the system cools
down again, see your retailer.
Windshield Washer Fluid
What to Use
When you need windshield or rear window
washer uid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s
instructions before use. If you will be operating
your vehicle in an area where the temperature may
fall below freezing, use a uid that has sufficient
protection against freezing.
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(c)Visually inspect hoses and have them replaced
if they are cracked, swollen, or deteriorated.
Inspect all pipes, ttings, and clamps; replace with
genuine Saturn parts as needed. To help ensure
proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling
system and pressure cap and cleaning the outside
of the radiator and air conditioning condenser is
recommended at least once a year.
(d)Visually inspect wiper blades for wear or
cracking. Replace wiper blades that appear
worn or damaged or that streak or miss areas
of the windshield.
(e)Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all
your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, and
anchorages are working properly. Look for any
other loose or damaged safety belt system parts.
If you see anything that might keep a safety belt
system from doing its job, have it repaired. Have
any torn or frayed safety belts replaced. Also look
for any opened or broken airbag coverings, and
have them repaired or replaced. The airbag system
does not need regular maintenance.
(f)Lubricate all key lock cylinders, door hinges
and latches, hood hinges and latches, glove box
hinges, sunroof (if equipped), and any folding
seat hardware. More frequent lubrication may berequired when exposed to a corrosive
environment. Applying silicone grease on
weatherstrips with a clean cloth will make them
last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.
(g)Check system for interference or binding
and for damaged or missing parts. Replace
parts as needed. Replace any components that
have high effort or excessive wear.
(h)Severe service is when the vehicle is mainly
driven under one or more of these conditions:
In heavy city traffic where the outside
temperature regularly reaches 90°F (32°C)
or higher.
In hilly or mountainous terrain.
When doing frequent trailer towing.
Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery
service.
(i)Drain, ush, and re ll cooling system. This
service can be complex; you should have
your retailer perform this service. See Engine
Coolant on page 331 for what to use. Inspect
hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap,
and ller neck. Pressure test the cooling
system and pressure cap.
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