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2012 FORD F-150

3.5L V6 EcoBoost•4WD•AUTOMATIC•gas•turbo
4 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
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cooling

Radiator Cap

for 2012 Ford F-150 3.5L V6 EcoBoost · 4WD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
6 min
Tools
1
Steps
5

This procedure covers the replacement of the radiator cap on a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine.

Warnings

⚠️Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. The cooling system operates under pressure and can spray scalding coolant, causing severe burns.
⚠Wait at least 30 minutes after engine shutdown before removing the cap to allow the system to cool and depressurize.

Tools required

Shop towel or ragEssential

Parts

  • Radiator pressure cap × 1 — Motorcraft RS-511 or equivalent 16 PSI cap

Preparation

  1. Ensure the engine has been off for at least 30 minutes and is cool to the touch
  2. Verify you have the correct replacement cap rated for 16 PSI
  3. Have a shop towel ready to wipe any residual coolant from the filler neck

Procedure

  1. 1
    Verify engine temperature
    Touch the upper radiator hose and radiator cap area to confirm the engine is cool. If any warmth is detected, wait longer before proceeding.
  2. 2
    Open the hood
    Release the hood latch and prop the hood open. The radiator cap is located on top of the radiator near the driver's side, just behind the grille.
  3. 3
    Remove the old radiator cap
    Place a shop towel over the cap. Press down firmly on the cap while turning counterclockwise to the first stop. Allow any residual pressure to release. Then press down again and continue turning counterclockwise to remove the cap completely.
  4. 4
    Inspect the filler neck
    Examine the radiator filler neck for cracks, corrosion, or damage to the sealing surfaces. Wipe clean with a shop towel if any debris is present. Check the coolant level; it should be visible near the top of the radiator when cold.
  5. 5
    Install the new radiator cap
    Align the new cap with the filler neck slots. Press down firmly and turn clockwise until it clicks into place and stops turning. Ensure the cap is fully seated and locked.

Reassembly

  1. No reassembly required for this procedure

Verification

  • Verify the new radiator cap is securely locked in place with no gaps between the cap and filler neck
  • Start the engine and allow it to reach normal operating temperature, then shut off and let cool for 15 minutes
  • Check for coolant leaks around the radiator cap area after the test cycle
  • Confirm the cap releases pressure properly by carefully loosening it slightly when cool; you should hear a brief hiss if the system is holding pressure correctly

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