Good maintenance is not just a matter of changing antifreeze, it's finding a coolant that's right for your system. "Most new radiators are made of thin, lightweight aluminum, which are vulnerable to pitting and corrosion," says Tom Lindberg, one of the antifreeze experts at Prestone Products Corporation. "Unfortunately, aluminum corrosion doesn't leave behind a visible sign like rust. Many car owners first learn that their radiator is under attack when they notice a leak from a corrosion-caused hole or crevice. Motorists should look for a dual action antifreeze formula that protects against freeze-ups and boil-overs and corrosion."

Here are several simple steps that make the annual antifreeze flush and fill safe and uncomplicated. Before changing your antifreeze, check your owner's manual for any specific instructions.

1. Drain the used antifreeze/coolant into a bucket large enough to catch the flow. Close the drain valve.

2. Flush the radiator system before refilling with new antifreeze/coolant. Experts recommend using a cooling system flush such as Prestone® Super Flush to get out the rust, grease, and sediment that plain water cannot. Remove radiator cap and fill the radiator with clean water and the flush/cleaner. Run the engine to normal operating temperature (about ten minutes) with the heater on high. Stop the engine and allow it to cool. Drain the radiator again, close the drain and refill with water alone. Run the engine to normal operating temperature for ten minutes, redrain the engine and close the drain valve.

3. Refill the radiator. Check your owner's manual for cooling system capacity. Install between 50 and 70 percent Prestone antifreeze/coolant and water. Once the system is filled, run the engine to normal operating temperature with the heater on high for ten minutes. Shut off engine and allow to cool. Top off system and coolant reservoir.

4. Dispose of the used antifreeze/coolant in accordance with the law.

5. Check coolant concentration. You can use special Prestone Test Strips. The strips change color according to the concentration of coolant in the system.

6. Check for any spills or leaks and clean up immediately. Tighten the child resistant cap and store securely away.(NAPSI)