DIYEngineandChassis -> Checking the engine coolant level for Your Toyota 4 Runner SUV Third Generation (1996-2002)

’01 4Runner_U (L/O 0008)  
Checking the engine coolant  
level  
Oil identification marks  
Look at the see−through coolant reser-  
voir when the engine is cold. The cool-  
ant level is satisfactory if it is between  
the “F” and “L” lines on the reservoir.  
If the level is low, add ethylene−glycol  
Either or both API registered marks are  
added to some oil containers to help  
you select the oil you should use.  
The API Service Symbol is located any-  
where on the outside of the container.  
type coolant for  
protection of aluminum components.  
a
proper corrosion  
The top portion of the label shows the oil  
quality by API (American Petroleum Insti-  
tute) designations such as SJ. The center  
portion of the label shows the SAE viscos-  
ity grade such as SAE 5W−30. “Energy−  
Conserving” shown in the lower portion,  
indicates that the oil has fuel−saving ca-  
pabilities.  
The coolant level in the reservoir will vary  
with engine temperature. However, if the  
level is on or below the “L” line, add  
coolant. Bring the level up to the “F” line.  
Always use ethylene−glycol type coolant  
for a proper corrosion protection of alumi-  
num components. See information in the  
next column.  
API service symbol  
The ILSAC (International Lubricant Stan-  
dardization and Approval Committee) Certi-  
fication Mark is displayed on the front of  
the container.  
If the coolant level drops within a short  
time after replenishing, there may be a  
leak in the system. Visually check the  
radiator, hoses, radiator cap and drain  
cock and water pump.  
If you can find no leak, have your Toyota  
dealer test the cap pressure and check  
for leaks in the cooling system.  
ILSAC certification mark  
2001 4RUNNER (OM35768U)  
3
’01 4Runner_U (L/O 0008)  
Checking brake fluid  
We recommend to use 50% solution for  
CAUTION  
your Toyota, to provide protection down to  
about −35_C (−31_F). When it is extreme-  
ly cold, to provide protection down to  
about −50_C (−58_F), 60% solution is rec-  
ommended. Do not use more than 70%  
solution for better coolant performance.  
To prevent burning yourself, do not  
remove the radiator cap when the en-  
gine is hot.  
Coolant type selection  
NOTICE  
Use of improper coolants may damage  
your engine cooling system. Your coolant  
must contain ethylene−glycol type coolant  
for a proper corrosion protection of your  
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or  
plain water alone.  
engine  
that  
contains  
aluminum  
components. Use “TOYOTA Long Life  
Coolant” or equivalent.  
To check the fluid level, simply look at  
the see−through reservoir. The level  
should be between the “MAX” and  
“MIN” lines on the reservoir.  
In addition to preventing freezing and  
subsequent damage to the engine, this  
type of coolant will also prevent corrosion.  
Further supplemental inhibitors or additives  
are neither needed nor recommended.  
It is normal for the brake fluid level to go  
down slightly as the brake pads wear or  
when the fluid level in the accumulator is  
high.  
Read the coolant container for information  
on freeze protection. Follow the manufac-  
turer’s directions for how much to mix  
with plain water (preferably demineralized  
water or distilled water). The total capacity  
of the cooling system is given in Section  
8.  
If the reservoir needs frequent refilling, it  
may indicate a serious mechanical prob-  
lem.  
If the level is low, add SAE J1703 or  
FMVSS No.116 DOT 3 brake fluid to the  
brake reservoir.  
2001 4RUNNER (OM35768U)  
4