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(NC)-Many people believe that their vehicle's cooling system never needs to be serviced, or it just needs a top off every now and then. But, cooling system maintenance is extremely important for every day vehicle performance, and the life of antifreeze depends on its ability to stand against temperature extremes and the ravages of rust and corrosion. Special chemical additives, called corrosion inhibitors, blended with ethylene glycol and water help prevent rust and corrosion damage. Over time, these additives work out and the inhibitor-depleted coolant will provide limited corrosion protection of cooling system metals.
That's often where the trouble starts. Repair or replacement of water pumps, radiators and other cooling system parts can be costly, and the inconvenience of a breakdown is even worse. It's important that motorists schedule regular maintenance or if needed flush and fills or top off in between.
Maybe you are thinking that the task is too difficult or you aren't sure what type of antifreeze/coolant you should use. Recent advancements have enabled some companies to develop antifreeze formulas that can be used in any car or light duty vehicle. For example, Prestone All Makes All Models Antifreeze/Coolant is compatible with antifreeze/coolants in any vehicle make and model. "This is a patented Organic Acid Technology formula that offers up to five years or 250,000 km of protection when it is added to any extended life antifreeze/coolant," said Megan Currie, Honeywell Consumer Products Group product manager.
If you are just topping off, the all makes all models formula is designed to provide the properties and change over intervals of the existing formula, be it one that offers 60,000 km of protection, 150,000 km of protection or 250,000 km of protection.
Of course, motorists should always check their owner's manual to ensure they are following the manufacturer's recommendations on the appropriate flush and fill maintenance procedures for their vehicle. For more antifreeze maintenance tips and 'how-to' videos, visit www.prestone.com.