Replacing the antifreeze in your radiator periodically will help extend the life of your vehicle and prevent possible cooling problems. Over time, sediment and debris can build up in a radiator, which can cause problems for your coolant system and engine. By replacing the antifreeze at least every other year, you are ensuring that this buildup is not allowed to accumulate.
Park the car on a flat surface in a safe place away from children and animals.
Pull the hood-release latch on the driver's side of the car and open the hood.
Let the radiator cool down to avoid burns. Hold the radiator cap with a dry rag and carefully give it a full turn. Wait a few minutes for internal pressure to abate. You may hear a hissing sound if the engine was still warm.
Locate the drain plug on the radiator. It should be on the passenger's side on the bottom of the radiator.
Place the bucket under the drain plug.
Loosen the drain plug with the socket wrench and then remove it. Allow the radiator to drain completely into the bucket. Replace the drain plug.
Remove the radiator cap. Alternately pour equal amounts of antifreeze and water into the radiator using the funnel. Or, if you purchased pre-mixed antifreeze, pour it in the radiator, undiluted, using the funnel. Fill the radiator until the liquid is visible in the neck.
Start the car and turn on the heat. Observe the level of liquid in the radiator neck.
Top off the radiator until the level stops dropping. Replace the cap and dispose of the used antifreeze in accordance with local environmental safety standards.
