Understanding the “Check Coolant Additive” Message in a Ford Truck
When your Ford truck displays the “Check Coolant Additive” message, it means that the computer is monitoring the coolant to ensure it is still in good condition. This message is an alert to check the strength of the coolant as well as for contamination like nitrites. It’s not just a warning to check the physical level of the coolant; it’s a timed alert to check the quality of the coolant and ensure it is properly blended for your vehicle.
The process of checking the coolant additive involves using a special test kit, which typically includes test strips. These test strips are dipped in the coolant to assess its condition. The test may involve checking the coolant concentrate (freeze points), conducting an ELC contamination test, and testing for nitrates. It’s important to follow the specific procedures outlined in the owner’s manual for this check, as simply adding coolant additive without verifying its necessity may not be advisable.
If the “Check Coolant Additive” message appears, it’s recommended to have the coolant tested with the appropriate test kit to ensure that the coolant is still in good condition. This may involve visiting a dealer or a third-party shop to run a chemical test on the coolant. It’s crucial to ensure that the coolant meets the required specifications for your vehicle to maintain optimal performance and prevent potential issues.
In some cases, individuals have experienced discrepancies in the advice provided by different dealers regarding the need to add coolant additive. It’s important to ensure that the coolant is tested and the appropriate actions are taken based on the results, rather than solely relying on general advice to add the additive.
Overall, the “Check Coolant Additive” message serves as a reminder to periodically assess the quality of the coolant in your Ford truck to maintain its optimal performance and prevent potential issues related to coolant quality.
Contents
- What color is coolant additive?
- Do you need coolant additive?
- Is coolant additive the same as antifreeze?
- Should you use coolant additive?
- How long does coolant additive last?
- How do you check the coolant additive on a 2015 f250?
- How often do you need to change the coolant in a 6.7 Powerstroke?
- What is a coolant additive?
- What does check coolant additive mean on a Ford?
- How much coolant additive for 6.7 Powerstroke?
What color is coolant additive?
Color: orange or red, but can also come in yellow, blue, red and dark green depending on the manufacturer. Nitrited Organic Acid Technology (NOAT): NOAT coolants contain nitrite and sometimes molybdate for engine liner pitting protection. Color: Typically red.
Do you need coolant additive?
Corrosion can eat through an aluminum radiator until coolant leaks on the ground. At the very least, drivers in the perfect climate still need to add corrosion inhibitors to straight water to properly cool an engine.
Is coolant additive the same as antifreeze?
Coolant is a fluid used in the radiator to remove the engine’s heat. Antifreeze is an additive mixed with water or coolant to prevent your car engine from freezing in cold weather. The ratio of water or coolant to antifreeze should be 50:50.
Should you use coolant additive?
They’re also pretty much essential in any engine which contains aluminium which will corrode at an alarming rate if you do not use them. Yes, they do help clean the system. Actually, they allow your coolant to work at higher temperatures than water alone before boiling.
How long does coolant additive last?
Delivers fast and consistent protection with inorganic chemicals, typically lasts 2 years or 30,000 miles. These additives use an organic acid as the primary corrosion inhibitor and heavily depend on various inorganic supplements such as silicate, nitrate, phosphate, and molybdate.
How do you check the coolant additive on a 2015 f250?
Pull it out. Just like testing a pool just let it sit for a minute. You’re gonna want to read the directions on. The test strips. It looks pretty good okay then we can come up to the bottle.
How often do you need to change the coolant in a 6.7 Powerstroke?
Ford Recommended Maintenance Intervals
| 6.9L / 7.3L Engine | 6.7L Engine | |
|---|---|---|
| Coolant Check/Change | Change every 10,000 miles | Initial change at 105,000 miles or 72 months; subsequent changes every 45,000 miles |
| Coolant Nitrite Strength Check | Change every 15,000 miles | Check every 15,000 miles or 600 hours |
What is a coolant additive?
SCAs, or supplemental coolant additives, are formulations added to the coolant stream to provide, as the name suggests, supplemental anti-corrosion and cavitation (or liner pitting) protection. Liner pitting is a significant problem in heavy-duty vehicles like the ones previously mentioned.
What does check coolant additive mean on a Ford?
The Check Coolant Additive Light comes on every 600 hours to remind you to check the coolant levels. While this does not indicate a problem, it does mean you should bring your Super Duty in to a certified Ford Service Center for a Coolant Check. DO NOT just add more coolant to the system!
How much coolant additive for 6.7 Powerstroke?
Capacities and Specifications – 6.7L Diesel
| Item | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Engine coolant (secondary cooling system) | 15.1 qt (14.3 L)1 |
| Engine coolant additive (secondary cooling system) | 16.0 fl oz (473 ml)2 |
| Brake fluid | Between MIN and MAX on brake fluid reservoir |
| Front axle | 2.7 qt (2.6 L) |
