Engine Coolant; 僅 Checking The Coolant Level - Kia Sorento 2023 Manual

Maintenance

Engine coolant

The high-pressure cooling system has a
reservoir filled with year round anti-
freeze coolant. The reservoir is filled at
the factory.
Check the antifreeze protection and
coolant level at least once a year, at the
beginning of the winter season, and
before travelling to a colder climate.
CAUTION
僅 When the engine overheats from low
engine coolant, suddenly adding
engine coolant may cause cracks in
the engine. To prevent damage, add
engine coolant slowly in small quanti-
ties.
僅 Do not drive with no engine coolant. It
may cause water pump failure and
engine seizure, etc.
Checking the coolant level
CAUTION
Removing radiator
cap
Never attempt to
remove the radiator
cap whilst the engine
is operating or hot. Doing so might lead
to cooling system and engine damage.
Also, hot coolant or steam could cause
serious personal injury.
Turn the engine off and wait until it cools
down. Use extreme care when removing
the radiator cap. Wrap a thick towel
around it, and turn it counterclockwise
slowly to the first stop. Step back whilst
the pressure is released from the cooling
system.
When you are sure all the pressure has
been released, press down on the cap,
8 32
using a thick towel, and continue turning
counterclockwise to remove it.
Even if the engine is not operating, do
not remove the radiator cap or the drain
plug whilst the engine and radiator are
hot. Hot coolant and steam may still
blow out under pressure, causing seri-
ous injury.
WARNING
The electric motor
(cooling fan) is con-
trolled by engine cool-
ant temperature,
refrigerant pressure
and vehicle speed. It
may sometimes operate even when the
engine is not running. Use extreme cau-
tion when working near the blades of
the cooling fan so that you are not
injured by a rotating fan blades. As the
engine coolant temperature decreases,
the electric motor will automatically shut
off. This is a normal condition.
The electric motor (cooling fan) may
operate until you disconnect the nega-
tive battery cable.
Check the condition and connections of
all cooling system hoses and heater
hoses. Replace any swollen or deterio-
rated hoses.
The coolant level should be filled
between MAX and MIN (F and L) marks
on the side of the coolant reservoir when
the engine is cool.
If the coolant level is low, add enough
distilled (deionized) or soft water. Bring
the level to MAX (F), but do not overfill.
If frequent additions are required, have
the system inspected by a professional
workshop. Kia recommends to visit an
authorised Kia dealer/service partner.
Engine coolant