DO-IT-YOURSELF MAINTENANCE - Engine and Chassis -> Checking the coolant level for Your Toyota Prius 4 Door First Generation (1997-2003)

Checking the coolant level  
Look at the see−through coolant reser-  
voir when the hybrid system is cold.  
The coolant level is satisfactory if it is  
between the “FULL” and “LOW” lines  
on the reservoir. If the level is low, add  
ethylene−glycol type coolant for a prop-  
er corrosion protection of aluminum  
components.  
We recommend to use 50% solution for  
your Toyota, to provide protection down to  
about 35°C (31°F). When it is extremely  
cold, to provide protection down to about  
50°C (58°F), 60% solution is recom-  
mended. Do not use more than 70% solu-  
tion for better coolant performance.  
CAUTION  
To prevent burning yourself, do not  
remove the radiator cap when the en-  
gine is hot.  
Coolant type selection  
NOTICE  
The coolant level in the reservoir will vary  
with hybrid system temperature. However,  
if the level is on or below the “LOW” line,  
add coolant. Bring the level up to the  
“FULL” line.  
Use of improper coolants may damage  
your cooling system. Your coolant must  
contain ethyleneglycol type coolant for a  
proper corrosion protection of your hybrid  
system that contains aluminum compo-  
nents. Use “TOYOTA Long Life Coolant”  
or equivalent.  
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or  
plain water alone.  
Always use ethyleneglycol type coolant  
for a proper corrosion protection of alumi-  
num components. See information in the  
next column.  
In addition to preventing freezing and sub-  
sequent damage to the hybrid system, this  
type of coolant will also prevent corrosion.  
Further supplemental inhibitors or additives  
are neither needed nor recommended.  
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.  
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 of distilled water). The total capacity  
of the cooling system is given on page  
236 in Section 9.  
If you can find no leak, have your Toyota  
dealer test the cap pressure and check  
for leaks in the cooling system.  
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