How to add coolant to a Ford Bronco Sport?
Top up coolant only with Ford-approved coolant (typically a 50/50 premixed HOAT type). Make sure the engine is completely cool, then fill the expansion tank to the MAX line; after the engine reaches operating temperature and cools again, recheck and top off if needed.
Be aware that the Bronco Sport uses a closed cooling system with an expansion reservoir. This guide covers the correct coolant type, how to safely refill, and post-fill checks to prevent engine damage and leaks.
Coolant type and safety considerations
The Bronco Sport relies on a closed cooling system and requires a Ford-approved coolant. In most cases, a HOAT (hybrid organic acid) coolant at 50/50 premixed strength is appropriate, but always verify the exact specification in your owner’s manual or with a Ford dealer. Do not mix different coolant types, and avoid using concentrated coolant without proper dilution. Work only when the engine is cold to prevent scalding injuries from a pressurized system.
Preparing properly helps ensure the system fills correctly and avoids air pockets that can lead to overheating or poor heater performance.
- Park on a flat, level surface and turn off the engine. Allow the engine to cool completely before touching the cooling system.
- Gather supplies: Ford-approved coolant (50/50 premix or the exact spec your manual calls for), a clean funnel, gloves, and rags for spills.
- Locate the expansion (coolant) reservoir. Identify the cap and the MAX and MIN marks on the side of the tank.
- Inspect the radiator hoses and reservoir for signs of damage, cracks, or leaks. Do not proceed if you notice any issues.
- Slowly loosen the reservoir cap a little to relieve any residual pressure, then remove it completely only when the system is cold.
- Confirm the coolant type required for your Bronco Sport. If your manual specifies a 50/50 premixed HOAT coolant, use that exact product and do not dilute it further.
- Place a funnel in the reservoir opening and slowly add coolant until the level reaches the MAX line. Do not exceed the MAX mark.
- Secure the reservoir cap firmly to prevent leaks. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches operating temperature and the thermostat opens. Monitor the reservoir for level changes and look for air bubbles that indicate purging air from the system.
- If the level drops after the engine cools, recheck after it has cooled again and top off to the MAX line. Do not overfill.
- After topping up, inspect for any leaks around hoses, clamps, or the reservoir. If you notice anything abnormal, stop and seek professional help.
- Dispose of any spilled coolant properly and never pour it down the drain or onto the ground. Use a sealed container for disposal at an authorized facility.
Following these steps helps ensure the cooling system is properly filled and ready to protect the engine from overheating. If you’re unsure at any stage, consult your owner’s manual or contact a Ford service professional.
Post-fill checks and safety tips
After completing the refill, perform these checks to confirm the system is functioning correctly and safely.
- Coolant level: Re-check the expansion tank once the engine has cooled. The level should be at or near the MAX mark; if not, add a little coolant to reach MAX.
- Leaks: Look for drips or damp spots around hoses, clamps, and the reservoir. Address any leaks promptly.
- Warning indicators: Ensure no warning lights (coolant level, engine overheating) are illuminated on the dashboard.
- Cap security: Confirm the reservoir cap is fully tightened to prevent vapor escape and pressure loss.
- Environmental disposal: Recycle or dispose of used coolant and rags properly according to local regulations.
- If levels continue to drop or overheating occurs, seek professional help. A persistent drop can signal a leak or a more serious issue.
These checks help ensure the cooling system remains effective and reduces the risk of overheating or engine damage in the days after topping up.
Summary
To safely add coolant to a Ford Bronco Sport, use Ford-approved 50/50 HOAT coolant, ensure the engine is completely cool, fill the expansion reservoir to the MAX line, and run the engine to operating temperature to purge air. Recheck levels once cooled, inspect for leaks, and dispose of waste coolant responsibly. If you’re unsure at any step, consult your owner’s manual or a qualified technician to avoid damage to the cooling system.
Can I refill my engine coolant myself?
To top up your engine's coolant, you can simply open the reservoir cap (be careful the engine is not too hot and use a cloth wrapped around the cap to open it, as there could be some residual pressure left in the system) and add to the fluid level – what you use to do this is very important though.
Is it okay to drive with low coolant?
No, it is not okay to drive with low coolant; you should pull over and address the issue immediately to prevent severe and costly engine damage like warped engine parts or a blown head gasket. Driving with low coolant can cause the engine to overheat, leading to decreased performance, accelerated wear and tear, and potential engine seizure. If the low coolant light is on, pull over as soon as it is safe to do so and get your vehicle checked.
This video explains the signs and symptoms of low coolant levels in a car: 57sHelpful DIYYouTube · Jun 23, 2021
Risks of driving with low coolant
- Overheating: Without enough coolant, the engine's temperature will rise rapidly, as the coolant can no longer absorb and dissipate the heat effectively.
- Engine damage: Overheating can cause metal engine components, like the engine block and cylinder heads, to warp or crack. It can also damage the head gasket, which is an expensive repair.
- System failure: The strain from low coolant can lead to premature failure of other cooling system parts, such as the water pump, radiator, and hoses.
- Reduced performance: An overheating engine runs less efficiently, leading to a loss of power and potentially higher fuel consumption.
What to do if you have low coolant
- Stop driving immediately: If the low coolant warning light comes on, pull over safely and turn off the engine.
- Assess the situation: Check to see if the coolant reservoir is completely empty. If it is, you likely have a leak, and you should not attempt to drive further.
- Add coolant if safe: If the vehicle is only slightly low, you may be able to temporarily add a 50/50 mix of coolant and water to get to a mechanic. If you don't have coolant, adding water can help in a pinch, but be aware that using only water can lead to overheating because it boils at a lower temperature than coolant.
- Call for assistance: If you're unsure about the severity of the issue or if you can't get to a repair shop, call a tow truck to avoid causing significant damage.
How to add coolant to a Ford Bronco?
Level if it's hot and that's okay because once it cools it will drop back down below that max. Now Ford states that you want to keep a 50% coolant ratio. And you want to use pre-diluted.
Can I just pour coolant into the reservoir?
Yes, you can pour coolant directly into the reservoir to top it off, but it's important to make sure the engine is cool first and that you are using the correct type of coolant. Pour the coolant up to the "cold fill" line on the reservoir, and check the level a few times after the engine cools down, as the system may draw more from the reservoir over time. If you've completely run out of coolant, it's best to also pour some directly into the radiator if it has a cap to ensure the system is full, and follow your car's specific instructions for bleeding air from the system.
This video demonstrates how to check and add coolant to your car's reservoir: 1m2CarProsYouTube · Oct 6, 2016
How to top off coolant in the reservoir
- Ensure the engine is cool. Wait for the engine to be completely cool to avoid personal injury and potential damage to the cooling system.
- Open the hood and locate the reservoir. It's typically a plastic tank near the radiator with "min" and "max" or "cold" and "hot" lines on the side.
- Loosen the cap slowly. Be cautious, as there may be residual pressure.
- Add the correct coolant. Pour the appropriate coolant mixture until it reaches the "cold fill" line on the reservoir.
- Replace the cap. Tighten it securely, usually until you hear a click.
- Monitor the level. After a few driving cycles, check the level again when the engine is cold. It's normal for the level to drop slightly as air is pushed out of the system, so top it off again if needed.
Important considerations
- Use the right type of coolant. Make sure to use the specific coolant recommended by your car's manufacturer to prevent corrosion and damage.
- Don't use plain water for extended periods. While water can be used in a pinch, using it long-term can lead to corrosion and overheating.
- If the system is completely empty, use the radiator. If your car has a pressure cap directly on the radiator, you may want to pour some coolant directly into the radiator first to ensure the system is fully filled.
You can watch this video to learn about the proper way to add coolant to your car's radiator: 1mEngineering ExplainedYouTube · Jun 22, 2016
