Does the radiator need to be full?
The radiator cools your engine and without it, the engine may overheat and stop working. The radiator needs water and coolant (antifreeze) to function properly. To ensure this, you must check and add coolant periodically in order to maintain an adequate radiator fluid level.
When should I top up my coolant?
Coolant should be topped up whenever the level drops below the guide marks. When it comes to draining and changing the coolant altogether, manufacturers guidance also varies although this can be after a minimum of 30,000 miles depending on how old your car is.
How to flush the radiator in a Pontiac Grand Prix?
Because coolant is extremely toxic to people and pets, you need to very careful with it during the radiator flush. Shut the radiator drain plug and fill the radiator with distilled water. Loosen the plug to drain the water and then, replicate this process of filling and draining until the water runs free of debris into the bucket.
How much coolant do you need for a Pontiac Grand Prix?
You will need 3 gallons of coolant for the regular Pontiac Grand Prix model and 4 for the GXP model. Be sure to check the drain plug for any leakage. Start the Pontiac Grand Prix and turn the heating system to high. Allow the car to keep running until the cooling fan turns on twice.
Where is the drain plug on a Pontiac Grand Prix?
The drain plug on a Pontiac Grand Prix is usually on the driver’s side bottom of the radiator facing the engine. However, on some models the drain plug is on the front of the radiator. Loosen the drain plug and allow the old coolant to drain completely from the radiator into the bucket. You may need a crescent wrench to loosen the drain plug.
How do you refill an engine coolant reservoir?
If using a premixed, ready to use engine coolant, skip this step. Open the plastic cap on the coolant reservoir. Place a funnel into the reservoir. Pour the properly mixed coolant into the coolant reservoir until the fluid level reaches the “FULL” mark. Place the reservoir cap back on and shut the hood of your vehicle.
Why is the radiator so hard to fill in a Pontiac Grand Am?
Filling the radiator in your V-6 Pontiac Grand Am can be a challenge. The reason it is so difficult centers around the fact that the radiator is lower in the vehicle than some of the cooling system components. As a result, air pockets form in the water pump housing and thermostat housing.
How do you fill the coolant reservoir in a car?
Remove the radiator cap from the radiator or coolant reservoir (depending on year model) and fill the engine with a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water. Allow the engine to fill until coolant comes out of the bleeder screws.
What to do when coolant comes out of radiator?
Start the engine, and close the bleeder screws when coolant comes out in a steady stream. Refill the coolant reservoir or radiator and repeat the process to ensure removal of all air.