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(NC)-Maybe you've been lucky enough to have never been inconvenienced with an overheated engine but that doesn't mean your vehicle's cooling system isn't being neglected. Do you know why you should be sure you have an adequate level of antifreeze/coolant in your car?
During travel, engines produce excessive amounts of heat and it is this particular fluid that helps remove some of that heat from the engine so it doesn't overheat during warmer months and doesn't freeze up in the dead of winter. Antifreeze/coolant also protects your engine against the ravages of rust and corrosion.
So, how can you quickly check your levels and top off?
1. Checking levels is easy. With the engine off and cool, open the hood and find the coolant reserve container. It is typically a white plastic tank with a cap labeled Coolant. Lines on the tank will let you know whether the fluid level is high or low.
2. If it is low, you should be sure to top off. Grab a funnel and a bottle of quality universal antifreeze/ coolant, like Prestone LongLife antifreeze/coolant - it can be used in all makes and models so there are no worries about using the wrong formula with a product like this.
3. If the formula is already premixed, you simply need to pour it in to the designated level on your reserve tank. If it is a concentrated formula, you will need to add 50 percent water, 50 percent antifreeze/coolant so that you have optimum boiling and freeze point protection.
4. Unless you have a leak - which in this case, you should take your vehicle to a repair shop for an inspection - you only need to check your antifreeze levels every time you check your oil level. For flush and fills, you should follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommended change interval, the recommendation on the antifreeze bottle or every three years.
For more information on proper cooling system care, visit www.prestone.com.