Final Answer:
The most likely cost-cutting measure to negatively affect the performance of antifreeze is C) Adding distilled water to reduce the density and dilute the solution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Reducing the cost of antifreeze production while maintaining its performance involves evaluating various measures. Options A and B, eliminating a colored dye and adding less expensive corrosion inhibitors, are less likely to significantly impact antifreeze performance if done judiciously.
However, Option C, adding distilled water to reduce density and dilute the solution, poses a substantial risk. Antifreeze works by altering the freezing and boiling points of the coolant, and excessive dilution compromises these properties. This reduces the concentration of antifreeze additives, diminishing its effectiveness in preventing freezing and overheating.
Option C is the answer.