While most people know about changing their engine's oil -- and some even know how to do it -- there are a number of other basic maintenance tasks that car owners can perform at home. One such maintenance item is flushing antifreeze from the cooling system. Over time, some of the chemicals in antifreeze break down. Flushing out the old antifreeze and adding new will benefit a car's cooling system and could extend the life of your vehicle.
Park the vehicle up on ramps and secure the parking break to make the process easier. Alternatively, lift the vehicle with a jack by its subframe and place jack stands under the subframe to raise the front of the vehicle.
Allow the engine to cool completely. Locate the drain plug and place the catch pan directly under the plug.
Put on a pair of vinyl gloves. Remove the drain plug and allow the old coolant to drain completely.
Replace the drain plug once all of the coolant has drained. Fill the coolant system with tap water. This will dilute any remaining coolant that is still in the engine block.
Start the engine and allow the engine to run for several minutes after the engine cooling fan comes on. Turn off the engine and allow it to cool completely.
Remove the drain plug and allow the tap water to drain completely. Refill the cooling system with distilled water.
Run the engine for several minutes to allow the distilled water to circulate throughout the engine. While the engine is running, remove the drain plug and pour more distilled water into the system. Continue to pour distilled water until the water runs out clear. Turn off the engine and allow the water to drain completely.
Replace the drain plug. Prepare to add your pre-mixed coolant or prepare a mixture of 50 percent coolant and 50 percent distilled water. Test the mixture with the hydrometer to assure the mixture has the proper coolant-to-water ratio.
Fill the cooling system to the full mark on the radiator reservoir. Start the engine. Continue to add coolant to the full mark as air escapes. Squeeze the radiator hoses to force air bubbles out. Once the coolant has stayed at the full mark, turn off the engine and replace the radiator cap.
