These Antifreeze Tips will help you keep cool

A little preventive maintenance can make it easier to drive safely during winter. Antifreeze, which is one of the main components of an engine, can freeze and cause you to be left out in the cold if it’s not properly maintained.

“Inspecting and maintaining your vehicle’s cooling system takes just a few minutes of your time, but it is well worth it when you consider what could happen,”Rich White, executive director at the Car Care Council, said: “Cooling system failure is the leading cause of engine-related breakdowns, which can cost thousands of dollars and leave you and your family stranded at the worst possible time.”

The cooling system under your vehicle’s hood is crucial. It protects the engine from damage and maintains an acceptable temperature range. Coolant levels are often overlooked by busy drivers. Checks revealed that more than 27 per cent of vehicles tested during National Car Care Month were low on coolant. A coolant flush was also required for 20 percent of vehicles to protect from rust, dirt, and mineral deposits.

These tips are from the Car Care Council to ensure that your cooling system is working efficiently this winter.

* Properly check coolant levels. You’ll need some basic tools and an antifreeze ball test kit, which can be found at your local auto parts retailer.

* Start with a cold engine. You could get severe burns from opening a hot radiator, coolant tank or overflow tank.

* Add the correct mix ratio if low. Add 50/50 mixture of approved antifreeze/distilled water to any low antifreeze/coolant levels. You can use the antifreeze tester to check if your coolant has been changed recently.

* Don’t forget the hoses. It’s a great time to inspect and replace any cracked, brittle or spongy hoses. To prevent leaks at the connections, make sure that the radiator hose clamps remain tight.

The Car Care Council provides information about the “Be Car Care Aware”Public education campaign to promote regular vehicle maintenance, care and repair. Visit www.autoserviceintervals.com to get a free service plan. www.carcare.org.