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.
Cooling System: Inspection
- To check the radiator for leakage, fill it with engine coolant, and attach the radiator cap tester (A) to the filler neck, and apply pressure. Check the following points:
157 kPa (1.6 kg/cm 2 , 23 psi)
- Hose joints and other connections for leakage
- Each portion of radiator for leakage
NOTE:- Be particularly careful not to deform the filler neck of radiator when installing and removing the tester and after testing.
- When performing this check, be sure to keep the engine stationary and fill radiator with coolant.
- Wipe off check points before applying pressure.
- Be careful not to spill coolant when detaching tester from radiator.
- Check the radiator cap valve open pressure using radiator cap tester.NOTE:
Rust or dirt on the cap may prevent valve from functioning normally. be sure to clean the cap before testing.
Raise the pressure until the needle of gauge stops and see if the pressure can be retained for five to six seconds. The radiator cap is normal if a pressure above the limit value has been maintained for this period. Replace the radiator cap if its valve opens at less than the service limit.Radiator cap valve open pressure:
Specification:
73.6 - 103 kPa (0.8 - 1.1 kg/cm 2 , 11 - 15 psi)
Service limit:
63.6 kPa (0.6 kg/cm 2 , 9.2 psi)
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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.
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