Checking the engine coolant

WARNING Removing the radiator cap - Never attempt to remove the radiator cap when the engine is running or hot. Doing so could damage the cooling system and engine, and cause serious personal injury from coolant leaks or hot steam. - Turn off the engine and wait for it to cool. Use extreme caution when removing the radiator cap. Wrap a thick cloth around the cap and slowly turn it counterclockwise to the first stop. Step away while pressure is released from the cooling system. When you are sure all pressure has been released, press down on the cap, using a thick cloth, and continue turning it counterclockwise to remove it. - Even when the engine is not running, do not remove the radiator cap or drain plug while the engine and radiator are hot. Boiling coolant and steam may still escape under pressure, causing serious injury. WARNING The electric motor (cooling fan) is controlled by engine coolant temperature, refrigerant pressure and vehicle speed. It can sometimes run even when the engine is not running. Use extreme caution when working near the cooling fan blades so you are not injured by the rotating blades. When the engine coolant temperature drops, the electric motor switches off automatically. This is a normal condition.

Check the condition and connections of the cooling system and heater hoses. Replace any hoses that are swollen or deteriorated.

The coolant level must be between the F and L marks on the side of the reservoir when the engine is cold.

If the level is low, add enough to provide freeze and corrosion protection. Bring the level up to F, but do not overfill.

If frequent additions are required, it is recommended that the system be inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.

Recommended coolant

- Use only distilled soft water in the coolant mixture.

- The engine has aluminum parts that must be protected by an ethylene glycol-based coolant to prevent corrosion and freezing.

- DO NOT USE alcohol or methanol-based fluids, or mix them with the coolant.

- Do not use a solution that contains more than 60% or less than 35% antifreeze, as this will reduce its effectiveness.

For mixture percentages, refer to the following.

WARNING Radiator cap Do not remove the radiator cap when the engine and radiator are hot. Boiling coolant and steam may escape under pressure and cause serious injury.