On-Vehicle Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Toyota Sienna. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

INSPECT COOLING SYSTEM FOR LEAKS
CAUTION: To avoid the danger of being burned, do not remove the radiator cap while the engine and radiator are still hot. Thermal expansion will cause hot engine coolant and steam to blow out from the radiator.
1. Fill the radiator with coolant and attach a radiator cap tester.
  
  Fig 1: Inspecting Cooling System For Leaks
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
2. Warm up the engine.
3. Pump it to 118 kPa (1.2 kgf/cm² , 17.1 psi), and check that the pressure does not drop.
If the pressure drops, check the hoses, radiator and water pump for leaks. If there are no signs or traces of external coolant leaks, check the heater core, cylinder block and head.
CHECK ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL AT RESERVOIR
1. The engine coolant should be between the "LOW" and "FULL" lines, when the engine is cold.
If low, check for leaks and add "Toyota Long Life Coolant" or equivalent up to the "FULL" line.
CHECK ENGINE COOLANT QUALITY
1. Remove the radiator cap.
  CAUTION: To avoid the danger of being burned, do not remove the radiator cap while the engine and radiator are still hot. Thermal expansion will cause hot engine coolant and steam to blow out from the radiator.
2. Check if there is any excessive deposits of rust or scale around the radiator cap and radiator filler hole; the coolant should be free from oil.
  HINT:
  
  If excessively dirty, replace the coolant.
3. Reinstall the radiator cap.

INSPECT FINS BLOCKAGE

If fins are clogged, wash them with water or a steam cleaner and dry with compressed air.

Fig 2: Cleaning Radiator Cooling Fins

Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

NOTE:

If the distance between the steam cleaner and the core is too close, there is a possibility of damaging the fins, so keep the following injection distance.

SPECIFICATIONS FOR INSPECTING FINS BLOCKAGE

Injection Pressures kPa (kgf/cm² , psi)	Injection Distance mm (in.)
2,942 to 4,903 (30 to 50, 427 to 711)	300 (11.811)
4,903 to 7,845 (50 to 80, 711 to 1,138)	500 (19.685)

If the fins are bent, straighten them with a screwdriver or pliers.
Be careful not pour water directly onto electronic components.