1999 Lincoln Continental Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 159

Maintenance and care If the engine coolant has not been checked at the recommended interval, the engine coolant reservoir may become empty. If this occurs, a LOW ENGINE COOLANT warning will illuminate in the message center and you will need to add engine coolant to the coolant reservoir. For more information on engine coolant maintenance, refer to Adding engine coolant in this chapter. Automotive fluids are not interchangeable; do not use engine coolant, antifreeze or windshield washer fluid outside of its specified function and vehicle location. Adding engine coolant Do not put engine coolant in the container for the windshield washer fluid. Do not mix conventional green coolant, orange coolant or recycled coolants together in your vehicle. Use only the type of coolant that your vehicle was originally equipped with. If you are unsure which type of coolant your vehicle requires, contact your local dealer. If sprayed on the windshield, engine coolant could make it difficult to see through the windshield. When the engine is cool, add a 50/50 mixture of engine coolant and water to the engine coolant reservoir-DO NOT ADD DIRECTLY TO THE RADIATOR. Add straight water only in an emergency, but you should replace it with a 50/50 mixture of coolant and distilled water as soon as possible. Check the coolant level in the coolant reservoir the next few times you drive the vehicle. If necessary, add enough of a 50/50 mixture of coolant and water to bring the liquid level to the fill line on the reservoir. Never remove the coolant reservoir cap while the engine is running or hot. If you must remove the coolant reservoir cap, follow these steps to avoid personal injury: 1. Before you remove the cap, turn the engine off and let it cool. 2. When the engine is cool, wrap a thick cloth around the cap. Slowly turn cap counterclockwise until pressure begins to release. 159