Replace Coolant Mazda CX-5 (No Special Tools) (NEVER OPEN HOT RADIATOR CAP!), by The OCD Repairman on YouTube. 5 min 39 s.
- Video length
- 5 min 39 s
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Park on a level surface and let the engine cool completely. Never open the radiator cap while the engine is hot, because pressurised hot coolant can spray out and burn you.
Open the hood and check the coolant level in the expansion tank. If it is low, note whether the coolant looks dirty or rusty, since that means it is due for a change.
Raise the front of the car on ramps or jack stands so you can reach the radiator drain plug underneath. Place a drain pan under the plug.
Slowly loosen the radiator cap to release any pressure, then remove it. Keep your face and hands clear of the filler neck.
Open the drain plug or petcock at the bottom of the radiator and let the old coolant flow into the pan. Move the pan as needed to catch it all.
Close the drain plug once the flow stops. If the old coolant was dirty, fill the system with clean water, run the engine briefly with the heater on, drain it again, and repeat until the water runs clear.
Fill the radiator through the filler neck with the correct Mazda coolant until it reaches the top. Fill the expansion tank to the full mark.
Run the engine with the cap off and the heater set to hot until the thermostat opens and the coolant level drops. Top up as needed and squeeze the radiator hoses to push out air pockets.
Refit the radiator cap and let the engine cool. Check the level again and top up the expansion tank. Look under the car for leaks.
Take the used coolant to a local recycling centre or auto parts store. Do not pour it down a drain or onto the ground.
Tips and common mistakes
Never open the radiator cap on a warm engine, since the pressurised coolant can cause serious burns.
Use only the coolant type listed in your Mazda owner's manual, because mixing types can damage the cooling system.
Bleed the system properly by running the engine with the heater on, or trapped air can cause overheating.
Wear gloves and eye protection, and keep coolant away from pets because it is toxic if swallowed.
Questions
How often should I change the coolant in a Mazda CX-5?
Check your owner's manual for the interval, which is often around 10 years or 120,000 miles for the first change on many Mazdas. Short trips and hot climates can make an earlier change sensible.
Can I just top up the coolant instead of draining it?
Yes, if the level is only slightly low and the coolant is still clean. Top up with the same type of coolant and a little distilled water if needed. A full drain and refill is for when the coolant is old or dirty.
Do I need special tools for this job?
No. A drain pan, a funnel and basic hand tools are enough. Ramps or jack stands help you reach the drain plug safely.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
