Ford Ka Quiz
Maintenance

Engine Coolant Check

In this manual: Maintenance
Introduction — 6Quick guide — 3Child safety — 6Seat belts — 5Supplemental restraint system — 7Keys and remote controls — 3MyKey — 4Doors and locks — 3Safety — 3Steering wheel — 4Washer/wipers — 4Lighting — 6Windows and mirrors — 3Instrument cluster — 4Information display — 4Climate control system — 6Seats — 8Auxiliary Power Outlets — 1Storage Compartments — 1Starting the engine — 7Fuel and refuelling — 7Transmission — 1Brakes — 4Traction control — 1Stability control — 1Ultrasonic parking system — 3Cruise Control — 1Driver assistance — 4Carrying a load — 3Towing — 8Driving tips — 5Emergency equipment — 6Fuses — 4Maintenance — 22Vehicle Maintenance — 6Wheels and Tyres — 14Technical specifications — 7Audio system — 18SYNC — 12Appendices — 3
3steps
~18min
2/5difficulty
Done 0 of 3
DANGER

Avoid contact of the coolant with skin or eyes. Rinse the affected area immediately if this occurs and consult a doctor without delay.

Note: Check that the oil level is between the MIN and MAX marks.

Note: Coolant expands when hot. The level may therefore exceed the MAX mark.

If the level reaches the MIN mark, add coolant immediately.

Engine Coolant Top-Up

DANGER

Only add coolant when the engine is cold. If the engine is hot, wait 10 minutes for the engine to cool down.

Do not remove the filler cap while the engine is running.

Do not remove the filler cap when the engine is hot. Wait for the engine to cool down.

Undiluted coolant is flammable and may ignite if spilled on hot exhaust gases.

Note: Check or refit the cap with the vehicle switched off and the engine cold to avoid injury or scalding.

Note: In an emergency, water may be added to the cooling system to reach a service station. Have the system checked by an authorised Dealer as soon as possible.

Note: Prolonged use of an excessively diluted coolant may cause engine damage due to corrosion, overheating or freezing.

Note: Do not add coolant above the MAX mark.

Note: If coolant levels are not within normal operating limits, system performance may be affected. Contact an authorised dealer for assistance immediately.

Note: The cooling system expansion tank cap must be checked and cleaned approximately every 3 years. If signs of seal ring deterioration are found, replace the cap.

Note: It is normal to see a few air bubbles in the coolant reservoir.
  1. Remove the filler cap. Pressure will slowly escape as the cap is unscrewed.
  2. Add a mixture of 50% coolant and 50% water that meets Ford specifications. See Technical Specifications.
  3. Refit the filler cap. Turn clockwise until strong resistance is felt and a click is heard.

Test yourself

A quick Ford Ka quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.