Operation and maintenance

Engine coolant

~2min read

Checking the coolant level

WARNING

Do not use an open flame or matches in the engine compartment. DO NOT ADD COOLANT WHEN THE ENGINE IS HOT: A hot engine is a safety hazard. If the engine is running, engine compartment components are very hot. There is a risk of burns.

Carefully check the coolant level in the reservoir, but do not open it.

Switch off the ignition and, before carrying out any further work, make sure the radiator fan is not running: Carrying out any work near a running fan is a safety hazard.

The fan may continue to run even after the engine has been switched off, while the temperature in the engine compartment is still high. A running fan may strike you and cause serious injury.

Do not remove the caps of the cooling system if the engine and radiator are hot: When the engine and radiator are hot, the heated coolant and steam are under pressure and may cause serious injury.

CAUTION

Coolant replacement should be carried out by a specialist workshop; we recommend an Authorised Mazda Service Centre.

Check the freezing point and the coolant level in the reservoir at least once a year, at the beginning of the winter season, and before travelling to areas where temperatures may fall below the coolant freezing point.

Check the condition and connections of all cooling and heating system hoses.

Replace them if they are bulging or damaged.

The radiator should be completely filled with coolant, and the level should be between the F or FULL and L marks on the reservoir when the engine is cold.

SKYACTIV-G 1.3 and SKYACTIV-G 1.5

SKYACTIV-G 1.3 i SKYACTIV-G 1.5

SKYACTIV-D 1.5

SKYACTIV-D 1.5

When the coolant level in the reservoir drops to the L mark, add the appropriate amount of coolant until the F or FULL mark is reached.

Tighten the reservoir cap after topping up the coolant.

CAUTION

  • Coolant may damage paintwork.

If spilled, rinse it off immediately.

  • Use only soft (demineralised) water to dilute the coolant.
  • Water contains minerals that reduce cooling efficiency.

  • Do not add plain water only. Always add the correct coolant mixture.
  • The engine contains aluminium parts and must be protected with an ethylene glycol-based coolant, which prevents corrosion and freezing.
  • DO NOT USE fluids containing alcohol, methanol, borates or silicates.
  • This may damage the cooling system.

  • DO NOT MIX alcohol or methanol with the coolant.
  • The cooling system may be damaged.

  • Do not use mixtures containing more than 60% antifreeze additive.
  • This may reduce cooling efficiency.
  • If the marking "FL22" is on or near the cooling system cap, use an FL22-type coolant in the system. Using a coolant other than FL-22 may cause serious damage to the engine and cooling system.

  • If the reservoir is empty or the coolant level needs to be topped up frequently, consult a specialist. We recommend an Authorised Mazda Service Centre.

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