Cooling System Pressure Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford Mustang. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
WARNING:
Always allow the engine to cool before opening the cooling system. Do not unscrew the coolant pressure relief cap when the engine is operating or the cooling system is hot. The cooling system is under pressure; steam and hot liquid can come out forcefully when the cap is loosened slightly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.
NOTE:
Vehicles have the pressure relief cap on the degas bottle and no radiator cap.
- Turn the engine off.
- Check the engine coolant level. Adjust the coolant level as necessary.
- Attach the Pressure Test Kit to the degas bottle nipple and overflow hose. Install a pressure test pump to the quick connect fitting of the test adapter.
- NOTE: Do not pressurize the cooling system beyond the maximum pressure listed in the GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS or cooling system components may be damaged.NOTE: If the plunger of the pressure tester is pressed too fast, an erroneous pressure reading results.
Slowly press the plunger of the pressure test pump until the pressure gauge reading stops increasing and note the highest pressure reading obtained. If the pressure reading exceeds the maximum cap pressure listed in the GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS , install a new pressure relief cap.
- If the system does not hold pressure, remove the pressure relief cap and wash in clean water to dislodge all of the foreign material from the gasket. Check the sealing surface in the filler neck of the degas bottle for nicks or cuts. Install the pressure relief cap.
- Pressurize the engine cooling system as described in Step 4. Observe the gauge reading for approximately 2 minutes. Pressure should not drop during this time. If the pressure drops, inspect for leaks and repair as necessary.
- If no leaks are found and the pressure drops, the pressure relief cap may be leaking. Install a new pressure relief cap and retest the system.
- If no leaks are found after a new pressure relief cap is installed, and the pressure drops, the leak may be internal to the engine. Inspect the coolant for engine oil and the engine oil for coolant. Refer to ENGINE SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION to diagnose the engine.
- Release the system pressure by loosening the pressure relief cap. Check the coolant level and adjust as necessary.