Check Coolant Additive Message

[rlaspinall]

Check Coolant Additive

So far it seems to only be something that is primarily done at a Ford dealer. I find that frustrating as it is not only another item that cost you more then it should, but also what if I am somewhere where a dealer isn't convenient?

 

[gmcretz]

I've had mine come on twice and took it to my dealer both times. The first time the service tech did the test strip and reset the light. This last time, the service tech checked the coolant reservoir and said to top it off and reset the light which I did.

 

[rlaspinall]

This is the second time my warning came on. The first time, I had my oil changed at a Rapid Lube and they provided an additive that I learned later was likely not Ford approved and the manufacturer wasn't even sure what was required. This time I took it to the dealer and they just checked the mileage on the antifreeze, checked the level, reset the warning and told me all was fine. No charge

 

[RoyBoy]

This is the second time my warning came on. The first time, I had my oil changed at a Rapid Lube and they provided an additive that I learned later was likely not Ford approved and the manufacturer wasn't even sure what was required. This time I took it to the dealer and they just checked the mileage on the antifreeze, checked the level, reset the warning and told me all was fine. No charge

I would recommend you find a dealer that knows how to properly test the coolant. If the wrong additive was used, it is likely you will need to flush and refill the entire system(s).

 

[rlaspinall]

You are right about that. The good new is that there is only about 27,000 miles on this coolant.

 

[ghostrider33]

I have never tested mine but I have almost 360,000 miles on a 2011 F350 and have drained and flushed the radiator, transmission and rearend every 100,000 miles. I did have to change the radiator because of a leak where the plastic side meets the aluminum. I am also going to do a DPF delete kit next week because the Diesel Exhaust Filter is clogged up. It's been a great truck overall.

 

[WD40]

WOW, First off Welcome to SDD.com, we're all glad to have you here. 360.000 on a 2.50 year old truck is keeping the left door closed a lot.
I think I am right on this, but you don't have to test your truck because it has the juice already in the A/F. That was for the 6.9 and the 7.3's
May I ask what you pull with your truck to get that kind of miles on it. Sure hope you come back often.
Doug

 

[KRISTOLSON]

Sounds like ford figured out a way to get customers to the dealer more often. Anyone put in a coolant filter yet? Then everytime you change the filter you get 4 more units of time release additive. Maybe doesn't work with the new coolant?

 

[Tbar]

Sounds like ford figured out a way to get customers to the dealer more often. Anyone put in a coolant filter yet? Then everytime you change the filter you get 4 more units of time release additive. Maybe doesn't work with the new coolant?

Mine came on at 13k......the dealership can check it when it goes in for an oil change at 15k.


Tbar

 

[rlaspinall]

Coolant Additive

I have never tested mine but I have almost 360,000 miles on a 2011 F350 and have drained and flushed the radiator, transmission and rearend every 100,000 miles. I did have to change the radiator because of a leak where the plastic side meets the aluminum. I am also going to do a DPF delete kit next week because the Diesel Exhaust Filter is clogged up. It's been a great truck overall.

That is good to know. I think I might just ignore it next time and just do a flush when the time comes. I would love to hear more about your performance after the delete kit. Clogging that filter has always been a concern and I understand replacing the filter is a big ticket item.