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Article No.
03-25-2
12/22/03
ENGINE - COOLING SYSTEM - LOW COOLANT
WARNING INDICATOR LAMP ILLUMINATED - COOLANT DEGAS BOTTLE INSPECTION - SERVICE TIP
FORD:
2001-2003 ESCAPE
This article supersedes TSB 03-08-5 to update the vehicle model years and service procedure.
ISSUE
Some 2001-2003 Escape 3.0L vehicles may exhibit a low coolant warning indicator lamp illuminated. This may be caused by a low coolant level, even if it appears there is significant coolant in the degas bottle. Analysis of coolant degas bottles indicate that bottle replacement may not be necessary. Adjusting the coolant to the proper level may be all that is required to correct the condition.
ACTION
The following Service Procedure provides tips to help in veritying proper coolant levels. Additional diagnostic and service information can be found in the appropriate Workshop Manual Section 303-03.
SERVICE PROCEDURE
PROPER INSPECTION AND ADJUSTMENT OF COOLANT LEVEL IN THE DEGAS BOTTLE
There are four (4) different cells within the Escape degas bottle. The front cells of the degas bottle are not a good visual indicator of proper coolant level, as these cells will always give the appearance of being full (Figure 1). The actual COLD FILL RANGE is the larger cell with the fill cap, just below the seam. It can be difficult to see if not properly examined.
If the vehicle is HOT when inspecting, the coolant level should be at the bottle seam (minimum) or above the seam by 1/2 inch, well above the LOW mark. When hot, if the coolant level is not at least to the top of the COLD FILL RANGE (seam), there is a possibility of illuminating the low coolant lamp when the vehicle cools down and the coolant is drawn back into the engine cooling system.
DIAGNOSIS
Engine Hot Or Cold Coolant Warning Indicator Lamp Not Illuminated (OFF):
1. If the coolant level is found to be below the COLD FILL RANGE (seam) add coolant, tighten pressure cap and return vehicle to customer.
Engine Hot Or Cold Coolant Warning Indicator Lamp Illuminated (ON):
1. If the coolant level is found to be below the COLD FILL RANGE (seam) add coolant, tighten pressure cap, verify that the warning lamp turns off after key cycle and return to customer.
2. If the coolant level is verified to be at the top of the COLD FILL RANGE (seam), disconnect the coolant level sensor and verify that the warning lamp turns off. If the lamp does turn off then replace the degas bottle. If the lamp remains on with the sensor disconnected then perform diagnostics on the circuit beyond degas bottle/low coolant sensor.
NOTE
IT TAKES APPROXIMATELY 25 SECONDS FOR THE LOW COOLANT LAMP TO TURN OFF AFTER THE SENSOR CIRCUIT IS
OPENED. (EXAMPLE: WHEN ADDING COOLANT TO A LOW BOTTLE WITH LAMP ON.)
NOTE
DO NOT REPLACE THE DEGAS BOTTLE UNLESS DIRECTED BY DIAGNOSTICS IN STEP 2.
Parts Block
1L8Z-8A080-BB - Coolant Degas Bottle
OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: NONE
SUPERSEDES: 03-08-5
WARRANTY STATUS: Eligible Under Provisions Of New Vehicle Limited Warranty Coverage
