Maintenance

Checking the Coolant Level

~2min read

Check the condition and connections of all cooling system hoses and heater hoses. Replace any swollen or worn hoses.

The engine coolant level should be between the MAX and MIN marks on the coolant reservoir when the engine is cold.

If the coolant level is low, add enough distilled (deionized) water to bring the level up to the MAX mark, but do not overfill. If frequent addition is required, have the cooling system inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.

WARNING

Never remove the engine coolant reservoir cap and/or the water-cooled intercooler coolant cap or drain plug while the engine and radiator are hot. Hot coolant and steam may be expelled under pressure, causing serious injury.

Turn off the vehicle and wait until the engine cools. Be extremely careful when removing the engine coolant cap. Wrap it with a thick towel and turn it counterclockwise slowly to the first stop. Step back while the pressure is released from the cooling system. When you are sure all pressure has been released, press down on the cap using a thick towel and continue turning counterclockwise to remove it.

Information

The coolant level is affected by engine temperature. Before checking or adding coolant, turn off the engine.

WARNING

The cooling fan motor may continue to run or start when the engine is off and may cause serious injury. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from the rotating cooling fan blades.

Always turn off the vehicle unless the vehicle must be inspected with the engine running. Be careful, as the cooling fan may operate if the negative (-) battery terminal is not disconnected.

WARNING

Make sure the coolant cap closes properly after adding coolant. Otherwise, the engine may overheat during driving.

1. Make sure the label on the coolant cap faces forward.

2. Make sure the small tabs inside the coolant cap are securely locked.

Recommended Coolant

  • When adding coolant, use only deionized water, distilled water or soft water for your vehicle, and never mix hard water into the coolant filled at the factory.
  • An incorrect coolant mixture may cause serious engine malfunction or damage.
  • Your vehicle's engine has aluminum engine parts and must be protected with a phosphate-containing ethylene glycol based engine coolant to prevent corrosion and freezing.
  • Do not use alcohol or methanol based coolant or mix them with the specified coolant.
  • Do not use a solution containing more than 60% antifreeze or less than 35% antifreeze, as this reduces the effectiveness of the solution.

Refer to the following table for mixing percentages:

Information

If you are unsure of the mixture ratio, use a 50% water and 50% antifreeze mixture. It is the easiest to mix together since it is an equal amount of each. It is suitable for use in most temperature ranges down to -31°F (-35°C).

Test yourself

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