Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Principles of Operation
Engine coolant flows primarily from the engine to the radiator circuit and back to the coolant pump. From the coolant pump, coolant is sent through the engine block and cylinder heads. A separate circuit from the engine also feeds the heater core with coolant. The coolant pump is operated by engine rotation through a pulley which is driven by the accessory drive belt, a belt driven by a pulley attached to the camshaft, or a sprocket driven by the timing chain to circulate the coolant. The coolant thermostat is a control valve actuated by coolant temperature. When the thermostat is closed, coolant flow bypasses the radiator circuit and returns to the coolant pump. When the thermostat is opened, coolant is allowed to flow through the radiator circuit in order to transfer engine generated heat to the outside air.
The degas bottle, if equipped, holds surplus coolant and removes air from the cooling system, which reduces hot spots. It also allows for coolant expansion and system pressurization, replenishes coolant to the cooling system and serves as the location for service fill.
The coolant expansion tank, if equipped, holds surplus coolant, allows for coolant expansion and replenishes coolant to the cooling system. It is equipped with a non-pressurized cap which allows coolant to be added to the tank to keep it filled to prescribed levels.
The cooling fan draws air through the radiator to help cool the system coolant as it passes through the radiator.
The thermostat monitor is a function of the powertrain control module (PCM) and is designed to verify correct thermostat operation. The monitor will be executed once per drive cycle and has a monitor run duration of 300-800 seconds. If a malfunction occurs, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0125 or P0128 is set, and the malfunction indicator lamp will be illuminated.
For vehicle/engine specific information, refer to ENGINE COOLING in Description and Operation.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.