KIA Niro: Radiator hoses

Inspection

1. Check radiator hoses for the following

(1) Improper attachment

(2) Leaks

(3) Cracks

(4) Damage

(5) Loose connections

(6) Chafing

(7) Deterioration

Coolant level

1. Check the coolant level in the coolant reservoir. Make sure it is between the "F" mark and "L" mark.
2. If the coolant level in the coolant reservoir is at or below the "L" mark, add coolant to bring it between the "L" and "F" marks, then inspect the cooling system for leaks.

Coolant quality

1. Remove the pressure cap.
2. Check if there are any excessive deposits of rust or scale around the radiator cap sub-assembly and radiator filler hole. Also, the coolant should be free of oil.

   If excessively dirty, clean the coolant passage and replace the coolant.

3. Install the pressure cap.

Replacement And Air Bleeding

Warning

Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. Serious scalding could be caused by hot fluid under high pressure escaping from the radiator.

Warning

When pouring engine coolant, be sure to shut the relay box lid and not to let coolant spill on the electrical parts or the paint. If any coolant spills, rinse it off immediately.

1. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool to the touch.
2. Remove the pressure cap (A).

3. Remove the engine room under cover.

   (Refer to Engine Mechanical System - "Engine Room Under Cover")

4. Loosen the drain plug (A), and drain the coolant.

5. Tighten the radiator drain plug securely.
6. Remove, drain and reinstall the reservoir. Fill the tank halfway to the MAX mark with water, then up to the MAX mark with antifreeze.
7. Fill the radiator with water through the radiator cap and tighten the cap.

Warning

To most effectively bleed the air, pour the water slowly and press on the upper / lower radiator hoses.

8. Start the engine and allow to come to normal operating temperature. Wait for the cooling fans to turn on several times. Accelerate the engine to aid in purging trapped air. Shut engine off.
9. Wait until the engine is cool.
10. Repeat steps 1 to 8 until the drained water runs clear.
11. Fill fluid mixture of coolant and water (45 - 60%) (except for North America, Europe and China : 45 - 50%) slowly through the radiator cap.

Push the upper / lower hoses of the radiator so as to bleed air easily.

Warning

• Use only genuine antifreeze/coolant.
• For best corrosion protection, the coolant concentration must be maintained year-round at 45 - 60% minimum.

  Coolant concentrations less than 45 - 60% may not provide sufficient protection against corrosion or freezing.

• Coolant concentrations greater than 60% will impair cooling efficiency and are not recommended.

Warning

• Do not mix different brands of antifreeze/coolants.
• Do not use additional rust inhibitors or antirust products; they may not be compatible with the coolant.

12. Start the engine and let coolant to circulate.
13. When the cooling fan operates and coolant circulates, refill coolant through the radiator cap.
14. Repeat step 11 until the cooling fan operates 3-5 times and bleed air sufficiently out of the cooling system.
15. Install the radiator cap and fill the reservoir tank to the "MAX"(or "F") line (A) with coolant.
16. Run the vehicle under idle until the cooling fan operates 2 - 3 times.
17. Stop the engine and wait for coolant to cool down.
18. Repeat 10 to 15 to bleed air out of the cooling system until the coolant level doesn't fall any more.

Warning

As it is to bleed air out of the cooling system and refill coolant when coolant cools down completely, recheck the coolant level in the reservoir tank 2-3 days after replacing coolant.

Coolant capacity : Approx. 5.8 L (1.53 US gal., 6.13 US qt., 5.10 lmp qt.)

Inspection

1. Check belt for maintenance and abnormal wear of V-ribbed part. Replace if necessary.

Warning

• Do not bend, twist or turn the drive belt inside out.
• Do not allow the drive belt to come into contact with oil, water and steam.

2. Visually check the belt for excessive wear, frayed cords etc.

   If any defect has been found, replace the drive belt.

Warning

Cracks on the rib side of a belt are considered acceptable. If the belt has chunks missing from the ribs, it should be replaced.

Removal

1. Remove the engine room under cover.

   (Refer to Engine and Transaxle Assembly - "Engine Room Under Cover")

2. Remove the drive belt.

(1) Using the wrench, turning the mechanical tensioner (A) counterclockwise and then insert a
stopper pin (B) into the hole.

(2) Install the SST(09244-G2100) to hydraulic tensioner (A) and then compress the hydraulic
tensioner by tightening the adjusting bolt (B).

Warning

To prevent damage the hydraulic tensioner, slowly must work by using the hand tool.

(3) Remove the drive belt (A).

Installation

1. Install the drive belt.

(1) Install the drive belt (A).

(2) Remove the SST (09244-G2100) from the hydraulic tensioner (A) by loosening the adjusting
bolt (B).

Warning

To prevent damage the hydraulic tensioner, slowly must work by using the hand tool.

(3) Using the wrench, slightly lift the mechanical tensioner (A) and then remove the stopper pin (B).

Slowly place the mechanical tensioner (A).

2. Install the engine room under cover.

   (Refer to Engine And Transaxle Assembly - "Engine Room Under Cover")

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