What is the difference between coolant and antifreeze?

[MatthewDella]

Coolant and antifreeze are different in that antifreeze is not entirely equivalent to coolant, whereas coolant is equal to water plus antifreeze. Coolant refers to any liquid that can lower the engine's temperature, which can be either water or antifreeze. Water is a very basic form of coolant and is also limited by seasonal constraints. The full name of antifreeze is antifreeze coolant, meaning it is a coolant with antifreeze properties, capable of preventing the coolant from freezing and expanding in cold winter conditions, which could otherwise crack the radiator or damage the engine cylinder block or head. In fact, antifreeze is not just for winter use; it should be used all year round. Generally, coolant needs to be replaced every two to three years.