2004 Mazda MAZDA6 Owner's Manual - Page 234

J56J_8S11-EA-03G_Edition1.book Page 14 Tuesday, June 24, 2003 6:29 PM Maintenance and Care Owner Maintenance If it's at or near LOW or L, add enough coolant to the coolant reservoir to provide freezing and corrosion protection and to bring the level to FULL or F. For mixture percentage: Protection Above −16°C (3°F) Above −26°C (−15°F) Above −40°C (−40°F) Volume Antifreeze Water solution 35% 45% 55% 65% 55% 45% CAUTION Radiator coolant will damage paint. Rinse it off quickly. Do not overfill. If new coolant is required frequently, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer. To change coolant WARNING Removing the Cooling System Cap: Removing the cooling system cap while the engine is running or hot is dangerous. This might lead to cooling system and engine damage and could result in serious injury from escaping hot coolant or steam. Turn off the engine and wait until it's cool. Even then, be very careful when removing the cap. Wrap a thick cloth around the cap and slowly turn it counterclockwise to the first stop (3.0-liter engine) or about two and a half rotations (2.3liter engine). Step back while the pressure escapes. When you're sure all the pressure is gone, press down on the cap (3.0-liter engine)- still using a cloth - turn the cap, and remove it. M Changing Coolant Change coolant according to Scheduled Maintenance (page 8-3). CAUTION • Use only soft (demineralized) water in the coolant mixture. Water that contains minerals will cut down on the coolant's effectiveness. • Don't add only water. Always add a proper coolant mixture. • The engine has aluminum parts and must be protected by an ethyleneglycol-based coolant to prevent corrosion and freezing. • DO NOT USE alcohol or methanol antifreeze. DO NOT MIX alcohol or methanol with the coolant. This could damage the cooling system. • Don't use a solution that contains more than 60 % antifreeze. This would reduce effectiveness. 8-14 Form No. 8S11-EA-03G