A man says that there’s an everyday fridge item that can replace antifreeze. But is it safe? In a video that’s generated over 41,000 views as of this writing, Ethan Peets (@ethan.peets) films a reaction video of a man using an item found in most refrigerators as a substitute for antifreeze. The original Facebook Reel posted by Stroker Garage (@stroker.garage.2025) claims that milk can be used as a substitute for antifreeze. "Milk is cheaper than coolant," the caption states. The post had 400 views, and the only comment was, "That ain't good." The post may have vanished from the internet's consciousness. But then it caught the attention of Peets, who filmed a reaction video that went viral. In Peets’ Reel, he watches the video and gives his take on Stroker Garage’s claim that you can use milk as a substitute for antifreeze. "After all these years, I just learned that milk is actually cheaper than antifreeze," Stroker Garage begins. "Yes, milk is cheaper than antifreeze, but I hope you ain't about to use this milk as a replacement for antifreeze," Peets reacts. Then Stroker Garage pours milk into the truck. "I’ve been pouring antifreeze in my truck for years and I just learned that I could’ve just been using milk this entire time," Stroker Garage says. It’s not clear whether the post is serious advice or reaction bait. OWNERSHIP STORIES Viral stories from across the web Our team of experts tracks what owners are saying about car-shopping, repairs, the daily driving experience and more on social media. "Ah he gone lost his mind," Peets replies. After pouring an entire gallon of milk into the truck, Stroker Garage fires it up "Yeah your car [expletive]," Peets concludes. What Can You Substitute For Antifreeze? Antifreeze is an essential component that helps prevent an engine from overheating. Antifreeze, also known as coolant, is typically a mixture of ethylene glycol and water. This fluid contains additives, lubricants, and water to help keep the system from overheating. "Antifreeze is a type of engine coolant which works with the cooling system by bringing heat from the engine block to the radiator, where hot coolant can be cooled down again before going back to the engine," per AutoZone. In an ideal scenario, vehicles always have plenty of antifreeze. However, in an emergency, it may be necessary to find a substitute. According to Natrad, the only substitute that should be used is water—and this is only if there is no other option available. Distilled water is the preferred choice. "Pure water has more heat-carrying ability than pure ethylene glycol, so water would be the best coolant to use if the only consideration in the selection of coolant was its ability to carry off heat," per Universal Technical Institute. After completing the drive, it’s best to flush out the radiator immediately to get all the water out and replace it with the proper antifreeze. While others have claimed that milk works as a substitute for antifreeze during an emergency, it should be avoided. If you do use milk, it’s best to immediately flush out the engine and replace it with the right antifreeze. Stroker Garage isn't exactly Team Milk. "I did it because antifreeze is $20 a gallon and milk is only $4 a gallon," they told Motor1. "Great way to save money! And also because my videos are satire and just for laughs." Substitute Milk for Antifreeze and Please Your Mechanic One thing people agree on about substituting milk for antifreeze: It may not please your car, but your mechanic might be just fine taking your money for the repairs. "Mechanics love people like this," one opined. Many people found the suggestion hilarious. "He is gonna make that car lack toes in taller ants," one joked. "He about give that car gas," another laughed. "To be fair, that's better than using antifreeze as a replacement for milk," a third added. Peets told Motor1 his goal was to make people laugh. "I like to focus on the funny of every video to give every video the chance to brighten someone’s day, whether it’s a facial expression or a way I say something In the video I’m focused on the funny," Peets said. Other viewers strongly advised against using milk as a substitute for antifreeze. "Kids, don't try this at home. Otherwise you will be walking everywhere," said one. "No, milk is a poor and potentially damaging substitute for antifreeze/coolant and should only be used in an extreme emergency to get a very short distance. Milk can curdle and leave residue when heated, potentially clogging the narrow passageways of your cooling system and causing severe engine damage; the proper emergency substitute is plain water (or distilled water), but you must flush the system and replace it with proper coolant immediately," one explained. We want your opinion! What would you like to see on Motor1.com? Take our 3 minute survey. - The Motor1.com Team
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