How To Drain Coolant On 2016 Chrysler 200C

Hey there, fellow gearheads and DIY enthusiasts! You know the drill: your ride’s cooling system is its lifeblood, especially when you’re pushing it hard on the trails or just cruising down the highway. Over time, that coolant loses its effectiveness, leaving your engine vulnerable.

Ignoring a proper coolant change can lead to overheating, corrosion, and costly repairs down the road. But don’t sweat it!

At FatBoysOffroad, we believe in empowering you to tackle these essential maintenance tasks yourself. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of how to drain coolant on 2016 Chrysler 200C models, ensuring your engine stays cool, protected, and ready for whatever adventure comes next.

By the end of this article, you’ll have the confidence and know-how to perform this critical service like a seasoned pro.

Table of Contents

Why Draining Your Coolant is Crucial for Your 2016 Chrysler 200C

Your engine’s cooling system does more than just prevent overheating. It protects vital components from freezing in cold weather and prevents corrosion that can silently destroy your radiator, water pump, and engine block.

Over time, the protective additives in your coolant break down. This leaves your engine susceptible to rust, scale buildup, and reduced heat transfer efficiency.

Fresh coolant restores these protective properties, ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity. It’s a small investment in time and money that can save you from major headaches.

Regular maintenance, including a complete coolant drain and refill, is key to keeping your 2016 Chrysler 200C running reliably, whether it’s navigating city streets or tackling a long road trip.

Gather Your Gear: Essential Tools and Supplies for a Coolant Drain

Before you dive in, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies laid out. Having everything at hand will make the process smoother and safer.

Required Tools:

Drain Pan: A large capacity pan (at least 2 gallons) to collect the old coolant.
Wrench Set/Socket Set: For removing the drain plug and potentially hose clamps.
Pliers: For spring-style hose clamps, if applicable.
Funnel: For refilling the new coolant without spills.
Distilled Water: Several gallons for flushing the system (optional but highly recommended).
Torque Wrench: For tightening drain plugs and clamps to spec.

Required Supplies:

New Coolant: Consult your owner’s manual for the specific type. For a 2016 Chrysler 200C, you’ll typically need Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant, usually purple or pink in color. Always use the correct concentration (pre-mixed 50/50 or concentrate to be mixed with distilled water).
Shop Rags or Paper Towels: For inevitable spills.
Gloves: Chemical-resistant gloves are a must.
Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from splashes.
Old Cardboard or Tarp: To protect your garage floor from spills.
Coolant System Cleaner: (Optional) If your system has significant buildup.

Safety First: Preparing Your Workspace for a Coolant Flush

Safety is paramount when working on any vehicle, especially when dealing with hot fluids and elevated vehicles. Take your time and follow these precautions.

Elevating and Securing Your Vehicle

You’ll need to access the underside of your car. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your car is on firm, flat ground.
Engage Parking Brake: Always activate the parking brake.
Block Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
Allow Engine to Cool: Coolant can be extremely hot and under pressure. Let your engine cool completely, ideally overnight, before starting. Never open a hot cooling system.
Lift the Front End: Use a hydraulic floor jack to raise the front of your 200C.
Secure with Jack Stands: Place sturdy jack stands under the vehicle’s frame or designated lift points. Lower the car onto the stands. Give the car a gentle shake to confirm it’s stable.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Coolant is toxic and can irritate skin and eyes.

Safety Glasses: Protect against splashes.
Chemical-Resistant Gloves: Prevent skin contact.
Long Sleeves: Offer additional skin protection.

Also, keep children and pets away from your workspace. Coolant, especially the sweet-smelling ethylene glycol types, is highly toxic if ingested.

Step-by-Step: How to Drain Coolant on 2016 Chrysler 200C Like a Pro

Now that you’re prepared, let’s get down to the actual process of draining the old coolant from your 2016 Chrysler 200C. Follow these steps carefully for a successful fluid change.

Locating the Radiator Drain Plug

The first step is finding the radiator drain plug. This is usually located at the bottom of the radiator, on one side (often the driver’s side), facing towards the rear of the vehicle.

Consult Your Manual: If you’re having trouble locating it, your owner’s manual will have a diagram.
Visual Inspection: Look for a small plastic petcock valve or a bolt on the lower tank of the radiator.
Access: You’ll likely need to be under the car to get a good view and access it.

Draining the Old Coolant

This is where things get messy if you’re not prepared. Have your drain pan ready.

Place Drain Pan: Position your large drain pan directly underneath the radiator drain plug.
Open Radiator Cap: Slowly and carefully remove the radiator cap. This will release any vacuum and allow the coolant to drain faster. Ensure the engine is completely cool before doing this.
Open Drain Plug: Using the appropriate wrench or by hand for a plastic petcock, slowly open the radiator drain plug. Coolant will begin to flow out.
Allow to Drain Completely: Let the system drain thoroughly. This can take 10-20 minutes.
Consider Lower Radiator Hose (Optional): For a more complete drain, especially if your radiator doesn’t have an easily accessible drain plug or if you want to flush more thoroughly, you can remove the lower radiator hose. Be prepared for a gush of coolant when you do this. Place the drain pan directly underneath.
Close Drain Plug/Reattach Hose: Once the flow stops, tighten the radiator drain plug. If you removed the lower radiator hose, reattach it securely and clamp it.

Remember, proper disposal of used coolant is essential. It’s toxic and harmful to the environment. Many auto parts stores or municipal waste facilities will accept used coolant for recycling.

Flushing the System (Optional but Recommended)

Flushing helps remove old coolant residue and any contaminants. This is a critical step for maximizing the life of your new coolant and cooling system components.

Close Drain Plug: Ensure the radiator drain plug is tightly closed.
Fill with Distilled Water: Using your funnel, fill the cooling system with distilled water. Avoid tap water, as its minerals can cause deposits.
Run Engine: Start the engine and let it run until it reaches normal operating temperature. Turn the heater on full blast to ensure the heater core is flushed.
Cool Down: Turn off the engine and let it cool completely.
Drain Flush Water: Repeat the draining process, collecting the dirty flush water.
Repeat (Optional): If the drained water is still very discolored, repeat the flushing process until the water drains clear.
Add Coolant System Cleaner (Optional): If you suspect significant buildup, follow the instructions on a reputable coolant system cleaner product during one of your flush cycles.

This thorough flushing ensures you’re not mixing old, depleted coolant with your fresh supply, which can compromise its effectiveness.

Refilling and Bleeding Your Cooling System Correctly

After you drain coolant on 2016 Chrysler 200C, refilling it properly and bleeding any trapped air is just as crucial as the draining process.

Choosing the Right Coolant

As mentioned, your 2016 Chrysler 200C requires Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant. This is typically purple or pink.

Never Mix Coolant Types: Mixing different coolant chemistries can lead to gelling, corrosion, and severe engine damage.
Pre-Mixed vs. Concentrate: If using concentrate, mix it 50/50 with distilled water before adding it to the system. Pre-mixed coolant is convenient but often more expensive.

Properly Bleeding Air from the System

Air pockets in the cooling system can cause hot spots, inaccurate temperature readings, and poor heating performance. Bleeding is essential.

Ensure Drain Plug is Closed: Double-check that the radiator drain plug is securely tightened.
Fill with New Coolant: Slowly pour the new 50/50 coolant mix into the radiator fill neck using a funnel. Fill it until it reaches the top.
Locate Bleed Screws (If Applicable): Some vehicles have dedicated bleed screws on the thermostat housing or upper radiator hose. Consult your manual. If present, open them slightly while filling until coolant begins to trickle out, then close them.
Squeeze Hoses: Gently squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses repeatedly. This helps to push air bubbles out.
Start Engine with Heater On: Leave the radiator cap off. Start the engine and let it run, keeping the heater on full blast. This opens the heater core and helps circulate coolant.
Watch for Bubbles: As the engine warms, you’ll see air bubbles escape from the radiator fill neck. Continue adding coolant as the level drops.
Maintain Level: Keep the radiator full. Once the thermostat opens (you’ll feel the upper radiator hose get hot), more coolant will be drawn into the engine.
Install Radiator Cap: Once the fan kicks on and the coolant level stabilizes with no more large bubbles, install the radiator cap.
Top Off Reservoir: Fill the coolant overflow reservoir to the “MAX” or “FULL COLD” line.
Test Drive and Recheck: Take your 200C for a short drive, monitoring the temperature gauge. After the engine cools completely, recheck the coolant level in the overflow reservoir and top off if necessary. Repeat this check over the next few days.

This bleeding process is crucial to prevent overheating and ensure your cooling system functions at its best.

Troubleshooting Common Issues After Draining Coolant

Even with careful execution, sometimes issues can arise after a coolant change. Here are a few common problems and how to address them.

Engine Overheating

If your temperature gauge starts climbing after the service, it’s likely due to trapped air in the system.

Solution: Re-bleed the cooling system. Ensure the car is on level ground, run the engine with the heater on, and continuously top off the radiator until all air is purged.
Check for Leaks: Inspect all hoses, clamps, and the drain plug for any drips. A small leak can introduce air.

Low Heater Output

If your heater isn’t blowing hot air, it often indicates an air pocket in the heater core.

Solution: Again, re-bleed the system thoroughly. Make sure the heater is on full hot during the bleeding process.

Coolant Leaks

A new leak after a coolant drain is usually related to something you touched.

Check Drain Plug: Ensure the radiator drain plug is tight, but don’t overtighten plastic ones, as they can crack.
Inspect Hoses and Clamps: Make sure all hose clamps are secure and the hoses are seated correctly.
Radiator Cap: Ensure the radiator cap is on tightly and is in good condition.

Gurgling Noises

Gurgling sounds, especially from the dashboard area, are a tell-tale sign of air still trapped in the cooling system.

Solution: Continue the bleeding process until the noises subside. It might take several drive cycles and cool-downs to get all the air out.

If you encounter persistent issues, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. It’s better to address problems early than risk engine damage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Draining Coolant on Your 2016 Chrysler 200C

Here are some common questions we hear about performing this vital maintenance task.

How often should I drain and replace my coolant on my 2016 Chrysler 200C?

For a 2016 Chrysler 200C using OAT coolant, the manufacturer typically recommends a coolant change every 5 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, if you drive in extreme conditions, off-road frequently, or notice discoloration, consider changing it sooner.

What type of coolant does a 2016 Chrysler 200C use?

Your 2016 Chrysler 200C specifically requires Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant, often identifiable by its purple or pink color. Using any other type of coolant can cause serious damage to your cooling system and engine components due to chemical incompatibilities.

Can I just top off my coolant instead of draining it?

Topping off is fine for minor fluid loss, but it doesn’t replace the need for a full drain and flush. The protective additives in coolant break down over time, even if the level is correct. A full drain ensures fresh additives and removes contaminants, providing complete protection.

What if I spill coolant?

Coolant is toxic and should be cleaned up immediately. Use absorbent materials like kitty litter or shop rags. Dispose of contaminated materials properly—do not wash them down a drain. Keep pets and children away from any spills, as even a small amount can be lethal if ingested.

Is it necessary to flush the system with distilled water?

While not strictly mandatory, flushing with distilled water is highly recommended. It helps remove old coolant residue and contaminants more effectively than just draining. Tap water contains minerals that can lead to deposits and scale buildup in your cooling system over time, which you want to avoid.

Mastering how to drain coolant on 2016 Chrysler 200C not only saves you money but also gives you invaluable insight into your vehicle’s health. It’s a fundamental DIY skill that every car owner should feel confident tackling.

By following these steps, you’ve not only performed essential maintenance but also deepened your understanding of your vehicle. Keep your cooling system in top shape, and your 200C will reward you with reliable performance mile after mile.

Stay safe, stay smart, and keep those engines running cool!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.