How to Change the Coolant on a Mazda 3

On the Mazda 3 (2010-2013), the correct coolant is FL22, printed on the expansion tank: you can find it on distriauto.it with the EAN code 4014835755956 at a price of £33.96 for the 5-litre container plus £9.99 for shipping. There is no cap on the radiator: it is only topped up from the tank.

The replacement interval is 190,000 miles or 10 years for the first change, then every 95,000 miles or 5 years. Procedure: remove the lower plastic cover (10 mm and 8 mm screws and push clips), which is the most tedious part of the job. Locate the drain screw on the driver's side of the radiator, at the bottom: it is a cross-head screw that does not come out completely; just loosen it until the fluid drains.

Unscrew the cap of the expansion tank to aid drainage. Let the fluid drain into a container.

Re-tighten the drain screw. Fill the tank to the MAX level.

Start the engine with the heating on maximum to eliminate air bubbles; you can also squeeze the radiator hose (with the engine off) and rev to 2,000 rpm for 30 seconds. Turn off, wait, check the level, and top up if necessary.

After 100 miles, check the level again and top up if needed.