Coolant change procedure for 07 Altima

[Towncivilian]

The factory service manual suggests use of a vacuum tool to presumably remove any air pockets after doing a coolant service. Can I simply drain and fill the radiator and overflow reservoir, then top up coolant as required until the level no longer drops? I believe the vehicle has its original fill of coolant at 88k, so this should have been the second change by now (60k, then every 30k). Perhaps a radiator drain & fill will not be sufficient? Should I opt for a flush instead?

 

[SteveSRT8]

A flush with the machine is extremely effective if done properly.

Be very cautious as many vehicles have elaborate procedures relative to coolant replacement, failure to follow them may cause damage.

 

[PeteTheFarmer]

The six cylinder Altimas of that era are notorious for trapping air; the low radiator and lack of a bleed valve make them hard to burp unless the front end is lifted. I don't think flushing vs drain and filling is going to make any difference, but a Lisle funnel is a cheaper alternative to the vacuum tool.

 

[mattd]

if it is a 4 cylinder it it is especially a major PITA to bleed. Nissan gives a special procedure. They want the nose of the car 3 feet off the ground and keep engine @ 2500 RPM for 20-30 mins.

 

[Towncivilian]

It's a 4 cylinder.

So, after draining & filling could I just jack up the vehicle and let it idle at operating temp w/ the rad cap on and just monitor overflow tank level, topping off until the level no longer drops?

 

[1 FMF]

i have a 2005 altima 2.5L 4cyl. when i drained coolant and refilled couple years ago I had no problems just filling the radiator and overflow tank. I think the whole special tool special procedure is a bunch of b.s. with the intent of scaring you to have the dealer do it.

nose of the car 3 feet off the ground & engine @ 2500 for 20 minutes... your funny.

 

[mattd]

OK, when you do these time and time again, and it fixes the customers issues, then you will see what i'm saying. They dont make up these things for [censored] and giggles.

FWIW, you will have little to no heat at idle if you do not follow this bleed procedure.