To change the coolant in your 2003 Chevy Impala, you need to drain and flush the entire cooling system. This involves:
1. Safety First: Let the engine cool completely before starting. Coolant is hot and under pressure when the engine is running or recently off. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
2. Locate the Drain Valve/Petcock: The lower radiator hose is the easiest point to drain coolant from. Some Impalas might have a petcock on the radiator itself, others might require disconnecting the lower radiator hose.
3. Drain the Radiator: Place a large container (at least a gallon) under the drain valve/hose. Carefully open the drain valve or disconnect the hose to allow the coolant to drain completely.
4. Locate the Engine Block Drain Plug (optional but recommended): Many vehicles have a drain plug on the engine block itself. Locating and removing this will help remove more old coolant.
5. Refill the Radiator: Once the coolant has drained, replace the drain plug/hose. Add new coolant to the radiator. Consult your owner's manual for the proper coolant type (typically a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water). Do *not* use tap water.
6. Run the Engine: Start the engine and let it run until the thermostat opens and the radiator fan comes on. This ensures proper circulation and helps purge air pockets. Keep an eye on the coolant level in the radiator.
7. Top Off the Coolant: Turn off the engine, and let it cool again. Check the coolant level in the radiator and the recovery tank. Top off as needed with the 50/50 coolant mix.
8. Check for Leaks: Inspect the system for any leaks after running the engine.
Important Considerations:
* Consult Your Owner's Manual: Always refer to your 2003 Chevrolet Impala's owner's manual for specific instructions and recommendations, including the type and amount of coolant needed.
* Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable performing this task yourself, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improperly draining or refilling the cooling system can lead to engine damage.
* Disposal: Coolant is toxic and should be disposed of properly at a local recycling center or auto parts store.
The recovery tank will naturally refill itself as the engine runs and the coolant expands. Don't worry about specifically filling the recovery tank—focus on filling the radiator correctly.
