2010 Mazda RX-8 Owner's Manual - Page 345

RX-8_8AT5-EA-09E_Edition1 Page345 Wednesday, April 15 2009 10:34 AM Black plate (345,1) Maintenance and Care Owner Maintenance NOTE Once the engine coolant exceeds a preset temperature, an electrical cooling fan turns on. It will continue running for about 10 minutes after the Turn the ignition switch to the ACC position. CAUTION Ø Radiator coolant will damage paint. Rinse it off quickly if spilled. Ø Use only soft (demineralized) water in the coolant mixture. Water that contains minerals will cut down on the coolant's effectiveness. Ø Don't add only water. Always add a proper coolant mixture. Ø The engine has aluminum parts and must be protected by an ethylene-glycol-based coolant to prevent corrosion and freezing. Ø DO NOT USE coolants Containing Alcohol, methanol, Borate or Silicate. These coolants could damage the cooling system. Ø DO NOT MIX alcohol or methanol with the coolant. This could damage the cooling system. Ø Don't use a solution that contains more than 60% antifreeze. This would reduce effectiveness. NOTE Changing the coolant should be done by an Authorized Mazda Dealer. 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 F and L marks on the coolant reservoir when the engine is cool. If it's at or near L, add enough coolant to the coolant reservoir to provide freezing and corrosion protection and to bring the level to F. 8-15 Form No.8AT5-EA-09E