Engine Coolant pH & Condition Test Checklist
This coolant pH and condition test checklist ensures systematic evaluation of antifreeze condition, additive package status, and freeze protection level to identify coolant degradation before it causes corrosion damage or freeze failure. Aligned with ASTM D3306 (ethylene glycol coolant), ASTM D6210 (OAT coolant), OEM coolant maintenance intervals, and NAHD (National Automotive Heater and Defroster Association) cooling system service guidelines.
- Industry: Automotive Service
- Frequency: Every 2 Years / Per OEM Interval
- Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
- Role: Service Technician
- Total Items: 28
- Compliance: ASTM D3306 (Ethylene Glycol Base Engine Coolant), ASTM D6210 (OAT and HOAT Coolant Standards), OEM Coolant Maintenance Intervals, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200 (Ethylene Glycol Hazard Communication), EPA 40 CFR Part 261 (Used Coolant Disposal)
Coolant Condition Testing
Test coolant condition using appropriate test strips or electronic tester. Results guide flush recommendation.
- Freeze protection adequate for local climate (minimum -34°F / -37°C for most regions)?
- Coolant pH in acceptable range (7.5-11.0 for most coolants)?
- Test strip or tester shows inhibitor/additive package still active?
- No signs of oil contamination (foamy, milky, or oily residue on cap)?
- Block combustion leakage test negative (no exhaust gas in coolant system)?
- Electrolytic voltage in coolant below 0.4V (measured with digital multimeter)?
Cooling System Component Inspection
Inspect cooling system components for corrosion, scale, and leak evidence.
- Radiator hoses soft but not spongy, free of cracks and end swelling?
- Radiator fins clean with adequate airflow area?
- Radiator/coolant cap pressure tested to specification (typically 14-18 PSI)?
- No coolant leaks at hose connections, water pump, heater core pipes, or coolant sensor bungs?
- Water pump weep hole dry with no coolant seepage?
Coolant Flush Procedure (If Required)
Complete coolant flush when test results indicate replacement is required.
- OEM-specified coolant type ordered/available for this specific vehicle?
- Cooling system flush machine used (or drain/fill with distilled water flush) for thorough exchange?
- Distilled or deionized water used for coolant mix (not tap water)?
- 50/50 mix of coolant concentrate and distilled water confirmed (or pre-mixed used)?
- Thermostat function verified after flush (engine reaches operating temperature)?
Post-Service Verification & Documentation
Verify cooling system integrity and document service.
- Cooling system pressure tested to cap rating after service (no leaks)?
- Air purged from cooling system (engine run to thermostat open with heater on full)?
- Temperature gauge reads normal after full warm-up (no overheating)?
- Coolant service documented with fluid type, quantity, and test results?
- Used coolant properly collected for recycling (not drained to storm drain)?
Advanced Cooling System Checks
Additional cooling system inspections to maximize reliability.
- Heater core flow verified (hot air from vents after warm-up)?
- Supplemental Coolant Additive (SCA) added for diesel engines per OEM specification?
- Coolant overflow/expansion tank clean with no scale deposits or discoloration inside?
- Customer advised of next coolant service interval (typically 5 years/150k for OAT, 2-3 years/30k for IAT)?
- Coolant type label affixed to reservoir or under-hood label updated?
- Thermostat replacement recommended proactively if original and over 100,000 miles?
- Coolant service complete - system sealed, no leaks, temperature gauge normal?
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Why Use This Engine Coolant pH & Condition Test Checklist?
This engine coolant ph & condition test checklist helps automotive service teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for service technician professionals, this checklist covers 28 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: every 2 years / per oem interval.
Ensures compliance with ASTM D3306 (Ethylene Glycol Base Engine Coolant), ASTM D6210 (OAT and HOAT Coolant Standards), OEM Coolant Maintenance Intervals, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200 (Ethylene Glycol Hazard Communication), EPA 40 CFR Part 261 (Used Coolant Disposal), UK BS 6580 Engine Coolant Standards, India IS 2595 Antifreeze Coolant Standards. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Engine Coolant pH & Condition Test Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 28 inspection items across 5 sections: Coolant Condition Testing, Cooling System Component Inspection, Coolant Flush Procedure (If Required), Post-Service Verification & Documentation, Advanced Cooling System Checks. It is designed for automotive service operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed every 2 years / per oem interval. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Who should use this Engine Coolant pH & Condition Test Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Service Technician professionals in the automotive service industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.