How Do I Change The Coolant In My 1989 Volvo 240?

Volvo recommends that the coolant be changed once every two years. In some territories where there is a hot climate, it may be necessary to change the coolant more frequently and have the entire system flushed and cleaned at the same time to get rid of dust from the radiator core and other contaminants that may entered the system.

To drain the cooling system, first park on level ground and then set the heater controls to MAX heat and remove the expansion tank cap (very slowly and carefully with a rag over your hand if the engine is hot).

Next, open the cooling system's drain tap which is located on the right hand side (viewed from the rear of the vehicle) of the engine near the exhaust manifold. Have a basin at the ready to catch the coolant from the drain tap and ditto when you then disconnect the lower radiator hose from the radiator.

If you wish to flush system, you can either run a water hose into the expansion tank for a few minutes, letting the water escape through the drain tap and radiator, or use a proprietary flushing solution as per the instructions.

To refill the coolant system, close the drain tap and reconnect the lower radiator hose. Fill the expansion tank to MAX with 8.5 litres (1.9 gallons) of a 1:1 anti-freeze/water mix. Start the engine and run until it reaches normal working temperature. While waiting make absolutely sure there are no leaks from the drain tap, bottom radiator hose or anywhere else on the system. Be careful of moving engine parts while conducting your inspection.

When the engine reaches normal temperature, switch off and top up with coolant if necessary.