Kia Sportage: Engine coolant

Checking coolant level

Inspect the cooling system and heater hoses, including their connections. Replace any hose that is swollen, worn or otherwise deteriorated.

With the engine cool, check that the coolant level in the reservoir is between the MAX and MIN marks, also identified as F and L on some reservoirs. Check the level only after the Kia Sportage engine has cooled.

Tip

If you need to add coolant frequently, have the cooling system inspected by a professional workshop. Kia recommends visiting an authorised Kia dealer or service partner.

Warning

The electric cooling fan is controlled by engine coolant temperature, refrigerant pressure and vehicle speed. It may start even when the engine is off, so take great care around the fan blades. As the coolant temperature drops, the fan will switch off automatically; this is normal. The fan may continue to operate until the negative battery cable is disconnected.

Caution

Removing the radiator cap

• Never remove the radiator cap while the engine is running or hot. Doing so can damage the cooling system or engine, and pressurised hot coolant or steam can cause serious burns. Switch off the engine and wait for it to cool. When the radiator is cool, use a thick towel to cover the cap and turn it counterclockwise slowly until it reaches the first stop. Step back while pressure escapes. Once you are sure the pressure has been released, press down on the cap through the towel and continue turning it counterclockwise to remove it. The engine and radiator may remain hot even after the engine has stopped; never remove the cap or drain plug while they are hot.

• If the engine has overheated because the coolant level is low, adding a large amount of coolant too quickly may crack the engine. Add coolant slowly, in small quantities, to help prevent damage.

• Do not drive the vehicle without engine coolant. Doing so may cause the water pump to fail or the engine to seize.

Note

After topping up the coolant, make sure the cap is securely closed. A cap that is not properly fitted can allow the engine to overheat while driving.

Procedure

1. Check that the label on the radiator cap faces straight forward.

2. Check that the small projections inside the coolant cap are securely engaged.

Recommended engine coolant

• When topping up the coolant, use only deionised or soft water. Do not mix hard water with the coolant installed at the factory.

• Do not use alcohol- or methanol-based coolant, or mix either with the specified coolant.

• Use a mixture containing no more than 60% antifreeze and no less than 35% antifreeze.

• The engine contains aluminium parts and must be protected against corrosion and freezing with a phosphate-based ethylene glycol coolant.

Use the mixture ratios below as a guide for the stated ambient temperatures.

Warning

Radiator cap

• Do not remove the radiator cap while the engine and radiator are hot. Pressurised, scalding coolant or steam may escape and cause serious injury.

• Never put radiator coolant or antifreeze in the windscreen washer fluid reservoir.

• If sprayed onto the windscreen, radiator coolant can severely reduce visibility and may cause loss of vehicle control. It can also damage the paint and body trim.

Changing coolant

Have the coolant replaced by a professional workshop in accordance with the maintenance schedule. Kia recommends visiting an authorised Kia dealer or service partner.

Caution

Before adding coolant, place a thick cloth around the radiator cap to help prevent coolant from spilling onto engine components such as the alternator.

Caution

• Do not use radiator coolant or antifreeze in the windscreen washer fluid reservoir.

• Radiator coolant sprayed onto the windscreen can severely obscure the driver’s view and may lead to loss of vehicle control. It can also damage the paint and body trim.

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