PROPER CARE

Inspecting Your Radiator Cap

*VERY EASY*

You should inspect your radiator cap monthly according to the following procedure:

1. Park the vehicle on level ground with the engine OFF, the parking brake engaged, and the transmission in PARK (for automatic) or REVERSE (for manual). If the engine has been run recently, let it cool. Raise the hood.
2. Identify the radiator cap on top of the radiator. If your cap has an external pressure relief valve, open the valve to relieve the pressure.
3. If the cap is solid and has no relief valve, wrap a thick cloth around it. Turn the cap counterclockwise to the first stop without pressing down to remove any system pressure.
4. After any air noise stops, again using a cloth, push down on the cap and continue turning to remove it.
5. Wipe the cap's rubber gasket clean and be sure it can hold an airtight seal. If the rubber gasket is deformed, hard, cracked, or missing, replace the cap. Squeeze the spring within the cap. If it does not flex, the cap must be replaced. Consult your owner's manual for the correct pressure rating of a replacement cap. Inspect the sealing surface of the radiator filler neck opening. Wipe it clean if necessary.
6. When installing the existing or new cap, make sure the cap is fully tightened in two stages. The cap should be twisted approximately 1/4 turn clockwise, then pushed down and turned another 1/4 turn.

Expect to replace your radiator cap every 4-5 years.

SYSTEMS
RADIATOR CAP
LONGEVITY TIPS
CORRECT OPERATION