1999 Mercury Cougar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 183

Maintenance and care Check the coolant level in the coolant recovery 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 mark on the reservoir. Never remove the coolant recovery cap while the engine is running or hot. If you must remove the coolant recovery 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 the cap counterclockwise to the first stop. 3. Step back while the pressure releases. 4. When you are sure that all of the pressure has been released, use the cloth to press the cap down, turn it counterclockwise and remove it. Do not use alcohol or methanol antifreeze or any engine coolants mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze. Do not use supplemental coolant additives in your vehicle. These additives may harm your engine cooling system. The use of an improper coolant may void the warranty of your vehicle's engine cooling system. 183