Cooling System Bleeding

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: When adding coolant, it is important that you use GM Goodwrench Dex-Cool(R) coolant.

NOTE: Recover and store used coolant in a used coolant holding tank and submit the used coolant for recycling on a regular basis. Do not pour used coolant down the drain. Ethylene glycol antifreeze is very toxic. Disposing of ethylene glycol into the sewer system or ground water is both illegal and ecologically unsound.

Ensure vehicle is on a level surface. Ensure the radiator drain cock is closed. Remove coolant surge tank coolant cap. Slowly add a mixture of 50/50 GM Goodwrench(R) DEX-COOL(R) antifreeze and clean water to coolant surge tank until the level reaches the cold fill range (surge tank seam). Start engine and check for leaks.
Run engine and cycle engine speed from idle to 3000 RPM in 30 second intervals until the engine cooling fan turns on. Engine cooling fan turns on at approximately 216°F (102°C). Return engine to idle. Idle engine for 30 seconds then turn engine off. Add coolant to the surge tank until the level reaches the surge tank vent port. Level in the surge tank will return into the cold fill range once the vehicle cools. Install the coolant surge tank cap.