Coolant Reservoir

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the coolant reservoir (overflow tank) on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine, including coolant draining and refilling.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Coolant reservoir × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Reservoir hose clamps (if damaged) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level ground
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Place drain pan under radiator drain petcock on driver side of radiator

Procedure

1. 1

   Release cooling system pressure
   Slowly turn the radiator cap counterclockwise to the first stop and allow any residual pressure to escape. Wait until hissing stops, then press down and continue turning to remove the cap completely.
2. 2

   Drain coolant from system
   Open the radiator drain petcock located at the bottom driver side of the radiator by turning counterclockwise. Allow coolant to drain into the pan. You do not need to drain the entire system, but draining 1-2 quarts will prevent major spillage when disconnecting reservoir hoses.
   Torque spec

   Drain Petcock7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect lower reservoir hose
   Locate the lower hose connecting the reservoir to the radiator. Use hose clamp pliers or flathead screwdriver to slide the spring clamp back along the hose away from the reservoir nipple. Pull the hose off the reservoir fitting. Allow any coolant to drain into your pan or towels.
4. 4

   Disconnect upper overflow hose
   Locate the smaller overflow hose at the top of the reservoir coming from the radiator neck. Slide the clamp back and remove the hose from the reservoir. This hose typically contains minimal coolant.
5. 5

   Remove reservoir mounting bolts
   Remove the two 10mm mounting bolts securing the reservoir to the body. One bolt is at the top of the reservoir bracket, and one is lower on the bracket. Keep these bolts as they will be reused.
   Torque spec

   Reservoir Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove reservoir
   Lift the reservoir straight up and out of the engine bay. Tilt it to drain any remaining coolant into your drain pan. Inspect the reservoir for cracks, especially around the neck and mounting tabs.
7. 7

   Install new reservoir
   Position the new reservoir into the mounting bracket, aligning the mounting holes. Thread in both mounting bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment, then torque to specification.
   Torque spec

   Reservoir Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect hoses
   Push the lower radiator hose firmly onto the reservoir nipple until it seats completely. Slide the clamp into position 10-15mm from the end of the hose. Repeat for the upper overflow hose. If installing new clamps, torque to specification.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Close drain and refill system
   Close the radiator drain petcock by turning clockwise until hand tight, then torque to specification. Fill the radiator through the radiator cap opening with Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink) until coolant reaches the bottom of the filler neck. Fill the reservoir to the FULL line marked on the side.
   Torque spec

   Drain Petcock7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Bleed cooling system
    Start the engine and allow it to idle with the radiator cap off. Turn the heater to maximum heat and fan speed. Watch the coolant level in the radiator and add coolant as the level drops during bleeding. Run until the cooling fans cycle on, indicating the thermostat has opened. Squeeze the upper radiator hose several times to help release air bubbles.
11. 11

    Final fill and cap installation
    With engine still warm, top off the radiator to the bottom of the filler neck if needed. Install the radiator cap by pressing down and turning clockwise until it locks. Check the reservoir level and ensure it is at the FULL line. Allow engine to cool and recheck reservoir level.

Reassembly

1. Ensure both hose clamps are properly positioned and tight
2. Verify radiator cap is fully locked in place
3. Wipe up any spilled coolant from engine bay surfaces

Verification

• With engine cold, verify coolant level in reservoir is at FULL line
• Start engine and check for leaks around both reservoir hose connections
• Allow engine to reach operating temperature and verify no leaks appear
• After first drive cycle, recheck reservoir level when cold and top off if necessary
• Monitor coolant level over the next few days to ensure no slow leaks are present

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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