A method and composition for forming a zinc phosphate coating on a metal surface utilizes an aqueous solution of zinc, phosphate, nitrate, nickel, a compound containing a group IV-B element, and a fluosurfactant. The method involves contacting the metal surface with such a bath under process conditions such that a coating is formed on the metal surface. Preferably, the compound containing a group IV-B element is a fluoacid of titanium, zirconium, or hafnium. More preferably, the fluoacid is fluotitanic acid. The fluosurfactant may be any compatible fluosurfactant but preferably is an amine perfluoroalkyl sulfonate or a non-ionic, fluorinated alkyl polyoxethylene ethanol or a combination of both. The coating serves to improve the ability of the metal to retain a lubricant on its surface (for cold working of the metal), to improve corrosion resistance, and to improve paint adhesion.