How do I add coolant to my Acura TLX?
To top up coolant on your Acura TLX, use Honda/Acura Long-Life Coolant Type 2 (blue) premixed 50/50, fill the expansion reservoir when the engine is cold, and then run the engine to circulate the coolant and check again. This guide walks you through locating the reservoir, selecting the right coolant, and performing the refill safely.
Choosing the right coolant for your TLX
Using the correct coolant prevents corrosion and overheating. Acura recommends Honda/Acura Long-Life Coolant Type 2 (blue) at a 50/50 premixed strength. Do not use universal or Dex-Cool-type formulas, and never mix incompatible coolants. If you’re unsure of the exact specification for your model year, check the owner’s manual or contact a dealer for the precise coolant type.
What you’ll need
The following items are helpful for a clean, safe refill and to avoid contamination or spills.
- Honda/Acura Long-Life Coolant Type 2 (blue) premixed 50/50
- Alternative: Honda/Acura Long-Life Coolant Type 2 concentrate + distilled water (follow label instructions for mixing)
- Clean funnel
- Gloves and safety goggles
- Rags or towels for spills
- Clean container for disposing old coolant
- Level surface and level ground
Having the right coolant and tools on hand helps ensure a quick, clean refill with minimal risk of contamination or spills. Keep in mind that spilled coolant is toxic to pets and wildlife and should be cleaned up promptly.
Step-by-step: Adding coolant to your TLX
The following steps guide you through a safe, systematic refill. Do this only when the engine is completely cold.
- Park on a level surface and set the parking brake. Turn off the engine and wait for it to cool completely before touching the cooling system.
- Open the hood and locate the expansion (overflow) reservoir. It’s a translucent tank with level markings (MIN and MAX) and a cap labeled for cooling system service.
- Check the fluid level by looking at the markings on the side of the reservoir. If the level is between MIN and MAX, you may not need to add coolant. If it’s below MIN, plan to add coolant up to the MAX line.
- Slowly loosen and remove the reservoir cap once the engine is confirmed cold. Do not loosen if you suspect the engine is hot or overheated.
- Visually inspect the inside of the reservoir for any signs of contaminants, unusual color, or cracks in the tank. If you notice damage, stop and seek professional service.
- Slowly pour the appropriate coolant into the reservoir up to the MAX line using a funnel to avoid spills. If you’re using premixed coolant, you can pour directly; if you’re mixing concentrate, combine with distilled water per the label before pouring.
- Replace the reservoir cap securely. Do not overtighten, but ensure it’s fully seated to maintain the system’s pressure.
- Start the engine and allow it to reach normal operating temperature with the heater set to hot. This helps purge any air pockets from the cooling system. Monitor the temperature gauge and look for leaks around hoses and the reservoir.
- Shut off the engine and let it cool again. Recheck the reservoir level; if it has dropped, add more coolant up to the MAX line as needed.
- Properly dispose of any old coolant according to local hazardous-waste disposal guidelines. Do not pour it down the drain or onto the ground.
Following these steps helps ensure the cooling system remains properly filled and free of air pockets that can cause overheating or irregular temperature readings.
Bleeding air and post-refill checks
Some TLX models may trap air within the cooling system, which can cause temporary fluctuations in temperature. If you notice the temperature gauge rising or an intermittent heater issue after a refill, you may need to repeat the process or consult a technician for a more thorough bleed procedure.
When to seek professional help
If you observe persistent overheating, coolant leaks, a sweet smell from the engine compartment, or crusty residue around hose clamps and the reservoir, stop driving and contact a qualified mechanic. Cooling-system service can involve hoses, the radiator, or the thermostat, which may require professional tools and procedures.
Safety reminders and maintenance notes
Always handle coolant with care. It is toxic if ingested and can irritate skin and eyes. Keep children and pets away from spilled coolant. Store any spare coolant in a sealed container away from heat sources. Regular checks of the expansion reservoir level can prevent unexpected overheating and help maintain optimal engine performance.
Summary
To add coolant to your Acura TLX, use Honda/Acura Long-Life Coolant Type 2 (blue) premixed 50/50, and fill the expansion reservoir only when the engine is cold, up to the MAX line. Refit the cap, run the engine to purge air, recheck the level, and dispose of old coolant responsibly. If overheating or leaks occur, or if you’re unsure about the process, consult a qualified mechanic or refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific guidance.
