The process of changing the coolant on a pickup truck Nissan Navara requires care, since the engine cooling system has its own design features. Improper draining can lead to airing of the circuit, which can lead to overheating of the power unit during subsequent operation. Many owners mistakenly believe that simply opening the radiator cap is enough, but this is only part of the job.
To complete the task correctly, it is necessary to follow the sequence of actions and take into account the specifics of different generations of the model NP300. It is important to understand the difference between draining from the radiator and from the cylinder block, since it is in the block that the bulk of the old fluid accumulates. Ignoring these nuances will result in the new antifreeze mixing with the old, reducing its protective properties.
Preparing the workplace and necessary tools
Make sure the engine is completely cool before starting work. It is strictly prohibited to open the cooling system on a hot engine due to the risk of serious burns from steam and boiling liquid. Under the hood Nissan Navara with diesel engine YD25 or petrol VQ40 There is limited room to maneuver, so make room in advance.
You will need a tool kit including 10 and 12 wrenches, as well as a flathead screwdriver to remove the protective plastic shields. Do not forget to prepare a large container for collecting waste liquid, the volume of which should be at least 10 liters. A funnel and clean rags are also useful for removing spills.
- 🔧 Set of wrenches and ratchet
- 🪣 Container for draining antifreeze (volume from 10 l)
- 🧤 Gloves and safety glasses
- 🧪 New antifreeze (original Nissan Long Life Coolant is recommended)
- 🧹 Rags and funnel
It is important to check the condition of the radiator drain plug and faucet, as over the years of operation they can become stuck or leak. If the plug does not unscrew, do not apply excessive force so as not to strip the thread, but try to gently tap it.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to open the expansion tank or radiator cap on a hot engine! The pressure in the system can be very high, and the liquid will spurt out, causing burns.
Stage of draining the main fluid from the radiator
The first step is to access the bottom of the radiator. On most versions Nissan Navara The lower part of the radiator is covered with a plastic tray that must be removed. This is done by unscrewing several mounting screws. Be careful not to damage the fragile plastic or honeycomb of the radiator when dismantling.
After removing the protection, you will see the radiator drain plug located in its lower corner. Place the container and slowly unscrew the cap. The liquid will begin to flow out under the influence of gravity. If the drain valve is not provided by the design, carefully disconnect the lower radiator pipe, first loosening the clamp.
- 🚫 Do not use open flame near the drainage area
- ✅ Be careful not to get the liquid on your skin or eyes
- 🌿 Dispose of used antifreeze at special collection points
The rate of leakage depends on how heavily the radiator honeycombs are clogged and whether there are blockages in the system. If the flow is too low, you may need to open the expansion tank cap to allow air to enter.
⚠️ Attention: Try to prevent antifreeze from getting on the paintwork of the body, as it has aggressive chemical properties and can leave permanent stains.
- Diesel YD25
- Gasoline VQ40
- Petrol V6
- Other
Draining residues from the cylinder block and pipes
By draining liquid only from the radiator, you remove only part of the volume. A significant amount of old antifreeze remains in the cooling jacket of the cylinder block. To completely refresh the fluid, you need to find the drain plug on the engine block. On diesel engines Nissan Navara it is often located on the left side of the block, on the gearbox side.
This step requires some skill and sometimes the use of a wrench extension. Unscrewing the block plug is also accompanied by liquid leakage, so the container should be located as close as possible to the drain hole. If the plug is missing or does not open, you can remove the top pipe from the thermostat to speed up the emptying process.
- 🔩 Use a torque wrench to tighten it back
- 🧼 Rinse the system with distilled water if it is heavily soiled
- 📅 Replace the O-rings when they are worn out
After draining the bulk of the liquid, it is necessary to let the system stand for several minutes to drain all the residue from hard-to-reach places. If you are planning on flushing the system, now is the time to add distilled water and run it through the engine until it comes out clean.
☑️ Preparing for a complete drain
What to do if the drain plug of the block does not unscrew?
If the plug is stuck, try gently heating the joint with a hair dryer. Never use an open flame or gas burner near fuel pipes and rubber pipes. You can apply a penetrating lubricant (WD-40) and leave for 15-20 minutes.
Features of flushing the cooling system
Flushing the system is a mandatory step when replacing antifreeze, especially if water or low-quality liquid was previously used. In the cooling system Nissan Navara Deposits may form that reduce heat dissipation efficiency. For high-quality flushing, use a special cooling system cleaner or distilled water.
The flushing process includes pouring distilled water into the expansion tank, starting the engine and warming up to operating temperature. After this, let the engine idle for about 15-20 minutes so that the water circulation washes away all contaminants. Then drain the water again and evaluate its color and cleanliness.
If the outlet water remains cloudy or has a rusty tint, the procedure must be repeated. High-quality flushing ensures that the new antifreeze will work effectively and will not mix with the remnants of old chemicals. This is especially important for modern engines with aluminum cylinder heads.
To speed up the flushing process, you can use a special pump connected to the cooling system to drive water in the opposite direction through the radiator.
Filling the system with new antifreeze and removing air
After complete rinsing and draining of the water, the most important stage begins - pouring new antifreeze. Use only the type of coolant recommended by the manufacturer, usually Nissan Long Life Coolant green or blue. Mixing different types of antifreeze can cause sediment to form and clog the system.
Fill the liquid through the expansion tank to the level between the MIN and MAX marks. Do not close the cap immediately. Start the engine and let it run until the radiator fan comes on. At this point, air will escape from the system and the fluid level will drop.
- 🌡️ Monitor the engine temperature on the dashboard
- 💧 Top up antifreeze as the level drops
- 🔄 Turn on the stove to maximum temperature and airflow
Be sure to turn on the interior heater to maximum to make sure that hot fluid is circulating in the heater radiator. This will help remove air pockets from the cabin heater. If after cooling the level drops below the minimum, add fluid again.
Proper removal of air pockets is critical to prevent local overheating of the engine and ensure the operation of the stove in the winter.
Antifreeze compatibility table and replacement intervals
For correct operation of the cooling system, it is important to know not only how to drain, but also what kind of liquid to fill. Below is a table with the main characteristics of antifreeze suitable for Nissan Navara.
| Antifreeze type | Color | Service life | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Long Life Coolant | Green | 90,000 km / 3 years | Original liquid, best choice |
| G11 (Silicate-based) | Blue/Green | 40,000 - 50,000 km | Acceptable, but requires frequent replacement |
| G12+ (Carboxylate) | Red/Purple | 100,000 - 150,000 km | Compatible, but check the ingredients |
| G13 (Hybrid) | Yellow | 150,000+ km | Not recommended without consultation |
You should not skimp on coolant, as cheap analogues can cause corrosion of aluminum engine parts. Never mix antifreeze of different colors and manufacturers without first thoroughly flushing the system with distilled water. This rule applies to all engines. Nissan, including YD and VQ series.
Common mistakes when replacing coolant
Many owners encounter problems after replacing antifreeze on their own. The most common mistake is insufficient removal of air from the system. An air lock can cause the temperature sensor to show low values, and the engine itself will overheat.
Another mistake is using water instead of distilled water for topping up. Tap water contains salts and minerals that, when heated, form scale and corrosion. This sharply reduces the life of the pump and thermostat.
- ❌ Do not ignore the smell of antifreeze in the cabin - this is a sign of a leak
- ❌ Do not over-tighten the plugs so as not to break the threads
- ❌ Do not mix different types of antifreeze “by eye”
If you notice that the fluid level is dropping too quickly, you need to check the system for leaks. Leaks can occur not only outside, but also inside the engine, for example, through the cylinder head gasket. In this case, diagnostics are required at a service center.
How to check the tightness of the cooling system?
To check the tightness, use a special pressure tester. It connects instead of the expansion tank and creates pressure in the system. If the pressure drops, there is a leak that needs to be found and fixed.
FAQ: Answers to popular questions
How often does antifreeze need to be changed on a Nissan Navara?
The manufacturer recommends replacing the coolant every 90,000 kilometers or every 3 years, whichever comes first. However, when operating in difficult conditions (dust, heat, off-road), it is better to reduce the interval to 60,000 km.
Is it possible to add water to antifreeze if there is no liquid?
It is strictly not recommended to add regular tap water. In an emergency, when the engine overheats and you need to get to a service center, you can use distilled water. After this, the system must be completely flushed and fresh antifreeze refilled.
What to do if the antifreeze in the expansion tank boils?
Boiling of antifreeze indicates a serious malfunction: a breakdown of the cylinder head gasket, a malfunction of the thermostat, a clogged radiator or a broken fan. Stop the engine immediately and call a tow truck. Continuing to drive may result in major engine repairs.
How to distinguish original Nissan antifreeze from a fake?
Original antifreeze Nissan Long Life Coolant has a specific label design, clear printing and a unique barcode. The liquid should be transparent, without sediment or flakes. Buy consumables only from authorized dealers or certified stores.
Is it necessary to warm up the engine after replacing antifreeze?
Yes, warming up the engine is required. This is necessary to circulate new fluid through all circuits of the system, including the heater radiator, and to remove air pockets. Monitor the temperature arrow and the liquid level in the tank during the first 10-15 minutes of operation.