I have a 2014 Ford Explorer XLT 3.5L V6 (non-turbo) and there has been a slow and consistent coolant leak from one of the heater core hoses. So today I decided to tackle the job of replacing said hoses. I followed the Haynes manual procedures for draining the coolant, proceed to change the hoses, and then started to follow the procedures for refilling the coolant.

However, after filling the expansion tank to the brim and then starting the engine, it idles really rough and sometime just dies. Please help!!

I am hoping that this is just an issue with not enough coolant being replace in the system or some extra step not mentioned needing to be done and that I didn't just ruin my car!

I followed all of the steps for draining and then refilling the coolant but when it said "Place the heater temperature control in the maximum heat position" I assumed it meant the cabin heat control (all electronic) so I just half turned the key to power up the car and did so, but it didn't seem to do anything or cause more coolant to enter the system.

If anyone has any experience performing coolant changes on a 2014 Ford Explorer V6, please let me know if I just missed a step or what I can do! I really can't afford to get a mobile mechanic or tow it unless there is no other option!