How do I get air out of the coolant system?

2005 BUICK LESABRE
180,000 MILES
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JUGGALO45
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  • 87 POSTS
I changed the thermostat and have heat but now I'm losing coolant but don't see a leak. Radiator hose stays soft with very little coolant was in it at the thermostat housing when I took it off, so I think I have air in lines.
Jan 9, 2023 at 8:31 PM
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STEVE W.
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  • 15,113 POSTS
Okay, normally on that system you fill it with coolant in the radiator and coolant reservoir, then run the engine to get it to operating temperature. Now shut it off and let it cool fully, check the coolant level and add as needed, after about 2 heat cycles it should be purged of any air, and you can then run it and see if the reservoir shows it full when hot and cold. If you have to keep adding coolant once, it's full you might want to get a cooling system pressure tester and see if the system shows any leaks. You can usually find them as loaner tools at many of the chain parts stores.


https://www.2carpros.com/articles/radiator-pressure-test
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/coolant-flush-and-refill-all-cars
Jan 9, 2023 at 10:11 PM