Antifreeze Myths South Africans Still Believe
Every winter, antifreeze suddenly becomes a talking point again. Yet many South African motorists still believe it is only needed in cold weather.
That misconception is costing drivers money.
Modern coolant does far more than stop water from freezing, as tap water alone can be detrimental to radiators and other cooling system components. It raises the boiling point of the coolant, protects against corrosion, lubricates components like the water pump, thermostat, pressure caps, and helps prevent overheating in harsh operating conditions. In a country known more for heat than cold, that protection matters year-round.
One of the biggest mistakes motorists make is topping up with plain tap water. Water alone offers no corrosion protection and the minerals and chemicals found in tap water can cause scale build-up inside radiators and engine passages. Over time, this reduces cooling efficiency and increases the risk of overheating and costly engine damage.
Another common myth is that all coolants are the same. They are not. Different antifreeze manufacturers use different coolant technologies and mixing incompatible products can create sludge, corrosion or reduced protection. Motorists should always follow manufacturer recommendations and compatibility guidelines.
Drivers will also notice different mix ratios such as 50/50 or premix. These refer to the balance between antifreeze and water. A 50/50 premix is the most common recommendation for daily driving, providing effective temperature control and corrosion protection with no additional water required. Concentrated coolant should always be mixed with distilled or demineralised water before use, unless otherwise specified.
South African driving conditions place enormous strain on cooling systems. Long-distance travel, heavy traffic, high temperatures, towing, and stop-start taxi operations all increase the importance of using quality coolant.
Cheap, low-quality coolant may save money initially, but poor formulations can lead to expensive repairs later. Replacing a radiator, water pump, head gasket or cylinder head costs far more than maintaining the cooling system properly from the start.
Antifreeze is not just a winter product. It is an essential year-round engine protection fluid and one of the simplest ways motorists can extend the life and reliability of their vehicles.
