Mazda rx-8 2005 Manual page 250

Maintenance and Care
Owner Maintenance
NOTE
Once the engine coolant exceeds a
preset temperature, an electrical cooling
fan turns on. It will continue running
for about 10 minutes after the ignition
switch is turned to off.
Inspect the antifreeze protection and
coolant level in the coolant reservoir at
least once a year at the beginning of the
winter season and before traveling
where temperatures may drop below
freezing.
Inspect the condition and connections of
all cooling system and heater hoses.
Replace any that are swollen or
deteriorated.
The coolant should be at full in the
radiator and between the F and L marks
on the coolant reservoir when the engine
is cool.
If it's at or near L, add enough coolant to
the coolant reservoir to provide freezing
and corrosion protection and to bring the
level to F.
8-16
CAUTION
Radiator coolant will damage paint.
Rinse it off quickly if spilled.
Do not overfill.
If new coolant is required frequently,
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
qChanging Coolant
Change coolant according to Scheduled
Maintenance (page 8-3).
CAUTION
Use only soft (demineralized) water
l
in the coolant mixture. Water that
contains minerals will cut down on
the coolant's effectiveness.
Don't add only water. Always add a
l
proper coolant mixture.
The engine has aluminum parts and
l
must be protected by an ethylene-
glycol-based coolant to prevent
corrosion and freezing.
DO NOT USE alcohol or methanol
l
antifreeze. DO NOT MIX alcohol or
methanol with the coolant. This
could damage the cooling system.
Don't use a solution that contains
l
more than 60 % antifreeze.
This would reduce effectiveness.