Parts for your 2013 Nissan Pulsar-Radiator cap

2013 Nissan Pulsar radiator cap — what it does, where it is, and how to look after it

Based on Nissan’s factory literature for the C12 hatch and B17 sedan (Cooling System “CO” section of the Service Manual and the Owner’s Manual maintenance chapter), the 2013 Nissan Pulsar does use a pressure-type radiator cap — it’s fitted to the pressurised coolant reservoir (expansion tank), not on the radiator neck. The radiator itself is a sealed unit. Nissan documentation notes a pressure cap on the reservoir and warns not to open the cap when hot, which confirms its presence and role on this model.

On the 2013 Pulsar, the radiator cap is more than just a lid. It seals the cooling system, holds a set pressure so the coolant’s boiling point is raised, and has a vacuum valve that draws coolant back from the overflow as the engine cools. That helps prevent air pockets, keeps the temperature stable under Aussie and Kiwi summer loads, and protects hoses and plastics from pressure spikes. Because the Pulsar’s radiator is sealed, the cap on the reservoir is the working “radiator cap” and the proper fill/bleed point when servicing.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to give the cap a quick once-over. Look for flattened or cracked rubber seals, a sticky or weak spring, crusty deposits around the neck, or signs of dried coolant. If you’ve noticed temperature creep in traffic, collapsing upper hoses after cool-down, or coolant pushing into the overflow and not coming back, the cap could be the culprit. A workshop can pressure-test it in a couple of minutes.

When replacing, match the Nissan-specified pressure rating stamped on the cap (commonly around 0.9–1.1 bar for this platform) and stick with a quality OEM or equivalent part. Avoid “universal” caps with the wrong rating — too low and you’ll boil early, too high and you can stress the system. Fit the cap squarely, tighten until it positively clicks or seats, and always open only when the engine is fully cold. If topping up, use the correct Nissan long-life coolant (pre-mixed or a proper distilled-water mix) and bleed air per the service procedure or with a spill-free funnel. During a coolant change at scheduled intervals, replacing the cap proactively isn’t a bad shout — cheap insurance for the cooling system under the bonnet.

• Check cap condition at every service.
• Replace at the first sign of seal wear, spring weakness, or every 4–5 years/80–100,000 km as preventive maintenance.
• Use the correct pressure rating and only open when cold.

Where is the radiator cap on a 2013 Nissan Pulsar?

It’s on the pressurised coolant reservoir (expansion tank) in the engine bay, not on the radiator itself. That’s the correct point for filling and bleeding the system on this model. Always let the engine cool completely before opening.

What pressure rating should the Pulsar’s radiator cap be?

Use the pressure rating specified by Nissan for your exact variant (printed on the cap and listed in the service/owner’s manual), typically around 0.9–1.1 bar. Don’t substitute a different rating — it can cause overheating or undue system stress.

How often should the radiator cap be replaced?

Inspect at every service and replace if the seal is tired, the spring is weak, or there are signs of leakage. As preventative maintenance, many techs swap the cap every 4–5 years or 80–100,000 km, especially when doing a coolant change.