2004 Dodge Intrepid Owner Manual - Page 188

188 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Cooling System WARNING! • When working near the radiator cooling fan, disconnect the fan motor lead or turn the ignition key to the OFF position. The fan is temperature controlled and can start at any time the ignition key is in the ON position. • You or others can be badly burned by hot coolant or steam from your radiator. If you see or hear steam coming from under the hood, don't open the hood until the radiator has had time to cool. Never try to open a cooling system pressure cap when the radiator is hot. Coolant Checks Check coolant protection every 12 months (before the onset of freezing weather, where applicable). If coolant is dirty or rusty in appearance, the system should be drained, flushed and refilled with fresh coolant. Check the front of the radiator and condenser for any accumulation of bugs, leaves, etc. Clean the radiator and condenser by gently spraying water from a garden hose at the back of the core. Check the engine cooling system hoses for condition and tightness of connection. Inspect the entire system for leaks. Any hoses that show cuts or severe abrasion must be replaced. Cooling System - Drain, Flush and Refill At the intervals shown on the Maintenance Schedules (5 years/100,000 miles), the system should be drained, flushed and refilled. If the solution is dirty and contains a considerable amount of sediment, clean and flush with a reliable cooling system cleaner. Follow with a thorough rinsing to remove all deposits and chemicals. Engine Coolant Disposal Used ethylene glycol based engine coolant is a regulated substance requiring proper disposal. Check with your local authorities to determine the disposal rules for your community. Do not store ethylene glycol based engine