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 remains in good condition. The message is similar to the oil monitor and is based on your usage, such as towing or idling. The computer determines when a check is needed based on your usage patterns. It’s important to note that this message is not a warning to check the physical level of your coolant, but rather a timed alert to check the strength of the coolant and to look for contamination like nitrites .
The coolant additive should be tested with a special test kit, as indicated in the owner’s manual. It’s essential to have the coolant tested to ensure it is properly blended for your vehicle. The coolant needs to be changed every 60,000 miles or so, and a comprehensive coolant flush is recommended every 20,000 to 30,000 miles. If the message appears, it’s advisable to visit a dealer or a third-party shop to run a chemical test on the coolant to ensure it is in optimal condition [[10]].
It’s worth noting that some users have experienced issues with dealerships not properly testing the coolant or adding the wrong additive. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that the coolant is tested correctly and that the appropriate additive is used if needed.
In summary, when your Ford truck displays the “Check Coolant Additive” message, it’s a reminder to check the coolant’s strength and look for contamination. It’s essential to follow the owner’s manual instructions and have the coolant tested with the appropriate test kit to ensure it remains in optimal condition for your vehicle.
If you have any further questions or need assistance with this issue, feel free to ask!
Contents
- What is the coolant additive?
- What coolant additive prevents overheating?
- What does supplemental coolant additive do?
- How much coolant additive for 6.7 Powerstroke?
- Is coolant additive the same as antifreeze?
- Why does my 6.7 Powerstroke say check coolant additive?
- What does check coolant additive mean on 2016 f250?
- What does check coolant additive mean on a Ford f250?
- How long does coolant additive last?
- Is coolant the same as radiator additive?
What is the coolant additive?
Coolant additives use chemicals called surfactants. When water is agitated or heated, surface tension holds bubbles together before they burst. Since bubbles are filled with air, they reduce the water’s heat-transfer ability. Imagine thousands of bubbles in the coolant passages of your engine as it runs.
What coolant additive prevents overheating?
Purple Ice is a high performance, synthetic, radiator coolant additive. It reduces engine heat by reducing the surface tension of the radiator fluids for improved heat transfer. Purple Ice fosters optimum coolant flow by helping to prevent formation of scale deposits in the radiator.
What does supplemental coolant additive do?
SCA coolant additives adhere to the liner and serve as a sort of protective coating or shield. The consistent slamming of the pistons with the liner eventually creates little bubbles, or cavitation, in the liner that can in turn become holes.
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) |
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.
Why does my 6.7 Powerstroke say check coolant additive?
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!
What does check coolant additive mean on 2016 f250?
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!
What does check coolant additive mean on a Ford f250?
Some corrosion and any type of buildup of any bad material in the coolant. System. It’s good to do check your coolant pH every once in a while. And for this system we’re gonna add the whole bottle.
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.
Is coolant the same as radiator additive?
Key Takeaways:
Coolant is the diluted additive mixture; antifreeze is the additive. Both fluids are designed to keep a car’s engine cool when running. An engine cannot run without a coolant antifreeze mixture. Radiator fluids call for regular maintenance to prevent engine damage.
