2004 Mazda Miata MX-5 Owner's Manual - Page 233

MX-5 Miata_8T72-EA-04G_Edition1 Page233 Wednesday, June 9 2004 3:6 PM Black plate (233,1) Maintenance and Care Owner Maintenance Engine Coolant qInspecting Coolant Level Inspect the antifreeze protection and coolant level in the coolant reservoir at least once a year―at the beginning of the winter season―and before traveling where temperatures may drop below freezing. Inspect the condition and connections of all cooling system and heater hoses. Replace any that are swollen or deteriorated. The coolant should be at full in the radiator and between the FULL and LOW marks on the coolant reservoir when the engine is cool. WARNING Hot Engine: A hot engine is dangerous. If the engine has been running, parts of the engine compartment can become very hot. You could be burned. Carefully inspect the engine coolant in the coolant reservoir, but do not open it. Do not use a match or live flame in the engine compartment. DO NOT ADD COOLANT WHEN THE ENGINE IS HOT. Cooling Fan and Engine Inspection: Inspecting the engine with the ignition switch in the ON position is dangerous. The cooling fan could turn on unexpectedly even when the engine isn't running. You could be seriously injured by the fan. Turn the ignition switch off and remove the key from the ignition switch when you inspect the engine. If it's at or near LOW, add enough coolant to the coolant reservoir to provide freezing and corrosion protection and to bring the level to FULL. CAUTION Cooling System Cap: When the engine and radiator are hot, scalding coolant and steam may shoot out under pressure and cause serious injury. Don't remove the cooling system cap when the engine and radiator are hot. Radiator coolant will damage paint. Rinse it off quickly if spilled. Do not overfill. If new coolant is required frequently, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer. 8-17 Form No.8T72-EA-04G