I needed to empty my coolant recovery tank the other day. I had to remove the tank to replace my O2 sensor - tank holds more fluid then you would think.

The fluid was unbelievably clean and clear and still bright orange - I was wondering how much the tank fluid cycles in the system. Not sure how much fluid comes back in those three small tubes on an XJR

I had the car to the dealer two years ago for some normal service - brake flush etc. - and coolant change was not recommended.

I believe this is the original fluid -- 50k on it. For those who have changed the fluid -- what was the condition?

 

I have 130k mi on my Jag and the coolant never appeared dirty or exhausted. The tank and supply hoses get hot so I suppose the coolant is cycling.

 

I remember having a discussion about the fluid with the dealer - the book says 5 years for a time line. I am wondering if the factory changed or advised a higher frequency. From what I understand the antifreeze part of the product does not evaporate like the older products did - so it is a question of the demand on the anti corrosion part of the product

I have read eight and ten years for some manufacturers - others do not list a change interval at all.


I even wiped out the recovery tank to see if any residue was in it -- nothing -- unbelievably clean.

 

Have you removed the radiator cap and inspected the fluid on the radiator? If it looks the same you're probably good to go. You can always pick up an 'Anti-Freeze Hydrometer' at the local auto-parts store and get a measurement...

 

I have changed the thermostat and hoses over the past year so the coolant has been changed.
Used the universal type. Good for 5 years.

 

The coolant recovery tank is the "cap" -- no cap on the actual radiator.

I was just looking over some of my paperwork -- Mercedes uses the 15 year 150k mile cycle for coolant.

I have never changes the XJR fluid. At the service 2 years ago the dealer lists "check coolant for service life" - protection checks OK - no need to replace.

I am not sure when Jaguar started to use the orange coolant.