The “check coolant additive” warning on a Ford vehicle is an alert that reminds the driver to check the coolant level and add more if necessary. It is not a fault message or a warning of a specific problem. Ford has programmed this alert to come on every 6000 hours or 13,000 miles, whichever comes first.
The purpose of this reminder is to ensure that the coolant level is maintained at the appropriate level for optimal engine performance and to prevent any potential issues related to coolant levels. Ford recommends testing the coolant using test kits that can be obtained from a dealer or online.
It’s important to note that the “check coolant additive” warning is not related to checking the physical level of the coolant, but rather the concentration and quality of the coolant. The coolant additive helps maintain the proper pH level and provides protection against corrosion and cavitation in the cooling system.
If you see the “check coolant additive” warning on your Ford vehicle, it is recommended to visit a certified Ford Service Center to have the coolant checked. Simply adding more coolant without proper testing may not address any underlying issues or ensure the coolant is properly blended for your vehicle.
To reset the warning, you can navigate to the information screen on your vehicle’s dashboard and find the option to turn off the warning.
Remember, it’s always a good idea to consult your vehicle’s manual or contact a certified Ford dealer for specific instructions and guidance regarding your vehicle’s maintenance and warnings.
Contents
- Do you need coolant additive?
- Should you use coolant additive?
- What is a coolant additive?
- How much coolant additive for 6.7 Powerstroke?
- How long does coolant additive last?
- Is coolant additive the same as antifreeze?
- What does it mean when my Ford says check coolant additive?
- Is it OK to just add coolant?
- What does check coolant additive mean on a Ford f250?
- What does diesel coolant additive do?
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.
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.
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.
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) |
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 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.
What does it mean when my Ford says 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!
Is it OK to just add coolant?
If the coolant level is low, add the correct coolant to the reservoir (not the radiator itself). You can use diluted coolant by itself, or a 50/50 mixture of concentrated coolant and distilled water.
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.
What does diesel coolant additive do?
Once additives deplete, however, all kinds of problems can arise, like cylinder-liner cavitation, corrosion and formation of scale, which reduces heat-transfer and can lead to engine overheating. Supplemental diesel coolant additives replenish the additives that have depleted to ensure your engine is still protected.
