Subaru Coolant: Does Your Subaru Need Special Type?

Hey Subaru enthusiasts! When it comes to keeping your Subaru running smoothly, one of the most important things to consider is the coolant you're using. You might be wondering, "Does my Subaru need a special coolant?" The short answer is: yes, it does! But let's dive into the details to understand why and what kind of coolant is best for your beloved Subaru.

Why Subaru's Coolant Needs Are Unique

Subaru vehicles, known for their reliable horizontally opposed engines (also called boxer engines) and all-wheel-drive systems, have specific needs when it comes to coolant. These engines are designed differently than typical inline engines, which affects how heat is distributed and managed. Because of this unique design, using just any coolant can lead to potential problems down the road. Think of it like this: you wouldn't put just any oil in your high-performance engine, right? Coolant is just as crucial.

The main reason Subaru requires a specific coolant is due to the materials used in their engines. Subaru engines often contain aluminum components, which are lightweight and efficient at dissipating heat. However, aluminum is also susceptible to corrosion if not properly protected. The original Subaru coolant is formulated with special additives that prevent corrosion and protect these vital engine parts. These additives, often referred to as corrosion inhibitors, create a protective layer on the aluminum surfaces, preventing them from reacting with the coolant and causing damage. Using a generic coolant that lacks these specific inhibitors can lead to corrosion, which can then cause leaks, overheating, and eventually, costly repairs. No one wants that, especially when a simple coolant choice can make all the difference!

Another factor to consider is the extended life of Subaru's Long Life Coolant (LLC). Subaru's coolant is designed to last much longer than conventional coolants, often up to 11 years or 137,500 miles on the initial fill. This extended lifespan is due to the high-quality additives and formulation that maintain their effectiveness over time. Switching to a generic coolant that requires more frequent changes can not only be inconvenient but also potentially compromise the engine's long-term health. Sticking with the recommended Subaru coolant ensures that your engine remains protected and operates efficiently for years to come.

Moreover, using the correct coolant helps maintain the overall cooling system's integrity. The cooling system consists of various components, including the radiator, water pump, hoses, and thermostat. Using a coolant that is not compatible with these components can lead to issues such as hose degradation, water pump failure, and thermostat malfunction. Subaru's coolant is specifically designed to work in harmony with all these components, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Trusting Subaru's recommendation helps you avoid unnecessary headaches and keeps your Subaru running as it should.

What Happens If You Don't Use the Right Coolant?

So, what's the worst that could happen if you decide to ignore Subaru's coolant recommendations and use a generic, all-purpose coolant instead? Well, let's just say it's not a pretty picture. Using the wrong coolant can lead to a cascade of problems that can significantly impact your Subaru's performance and lifespan.

First and foremost, corrosion is a major concern. As mentioned earlier, Subaru engines often contain aluminum components that are highly susceptible to corrosion. Generic coolants may not have the necessary additives to protect these aluminum parts, leading to gradual corrosion. This corrosion can weaken the engine components, causing leaks and reducing the overall efficiency of the cooling system. Over time, this can lead to more severe issues, such as engine overheating and even engine failure. Nobody wants to deal with a blown engine simply because of using the wrong coolant.

Another common issue is the formation of sludge and deposits within the cooling system. Some generic coolants contain ingredients that can react with the engine's materials, forming a thick, gooey sludge. This sludge can clog the narrow passages within the radiator and engine block, restricting coolant flow and reducing the system's ability to dissipate heat. As a result, the engine can overheat, leading to potential damage to the head gasket and other critical components. Removing sludge from a cooling system can be a labor-intensive and costly process, so it's best to avoid it altogether by using the correct coolant.

Furthermore, using the wrong coolant can cause damage to the water pump. The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the engine, and it relies on the coolant for lubrication and cooling. Some generic coolants may not provide adequate lubrication, leading to premature wear and failure of the water pump. Replacing a water pump can be a significant expense, especially when you factor in the labor costs involved. Sticking with the recommended Subaru coolant ensures that your water pump remains properly lubricated and functions optimally.

In addition to these mechanical issues, using the wrong coolant can also void your Subaru's warranty. Most manufacturers require that you use approved fluids and components to maintain warranty coverage. If you use a non-approved coolant and experience a cooling system failure, the manufacturer may deny your warranty claim, leaving you to foot the bill for the repairs. To avoid any potential warranty issues, it's always best to use the recommended Subaru coolant.

What Kind of Coolant Should You Use?

Okay, so now that we've established the importance of using the right coolant, the next question is: what kind of coolant should you use in your Subaru? The best option is always to use the Subaru Super Coolant, also known as Subaru Long Life Coolant (LLC). This coolant is specifically formulated for Subaru engines and meets all the requirements for optimal performance and protection. You can purchase it at your local Subaru dealership or from reputable online retailers.

Subaru Super Coolant is an ethylene glycol-based coolant with special additives to prevent corrosion, scale formation, and foaming. It is dyed blue, making it easy to identify. This coolant is designed to last for an extended period, typically up to 11 years or 137,500 miles on the initial fill, and 6 years or 75,000 miles for subsequent replacements. Using Subaru Super Coolant ensures that your engine remains protected and operates efficiently for years to come.

If you can't find Subaru Super Coolant, look for a coolant that is specifically labeled as compatible with Subaru engines and meets the Subaru coolant specification. These coolants will have the necessary additives to protect the aluminum components and prevent corrosion. Make sure to read the label carefully and verify that the coolant is suitable for your specific Subaru model and year.

Avoid using generic, all-purpose coolants that do not meet Subaru's specifications. These coolants may not provide adequate protection for the aluminum components and can lead to corrosion and other issues. Additionally, avoid using coolants that contain silicates, as these can cause deposits and reduce the cooling system's efficiency. Always err on the side of caution and choose a coolant that is specifically designed for Subaru engines.

When in doubt, consult your Subaru owner's manual or contact your local Subaru dealership. They can provide you with the most up-to-date information and recommendations for coolant. Using the correct coolant is a small investment that can save you a lot of money and headaches in the long run.

How to Check and Change Your Coolant

Maintaining your Subaru's coolant is just as important as using the right type. Regularly checking and changing your coolant ensures that your cooling system remains in top condition, preventing overheating and potential engine damage. Here’s how to do it:

Checking Your Coolant Level

Checking your coolant level is a simple task that you can do regularly. Here’s how:

1. Make sure the engine is cool: Never open the coolant reservoir cap when the engine is hot, as the system is pressurized and can cause severe burns.
2. Locate the coolant reservoir: The coolant reservoir is usually a translucent plastic container located near the engine. It has markings indicating the minimum and maximum coolant levels.
3. Check the coolant level: Look at the coolant level in the reservoir. It should be between the minimum and maximum markings. If the level is below the minimum, add coolant until it reaches the proper level.
4. Inspect the coolant: Check the color and condition of the coolant. It should be a clean, translucent blue or green color. If the coolant is murky, rusty, or contains debris, it’s time to flush and replace it.

Changing Your Coolant

Changing your coolant is a more involved process, but it’s essential for maintaining your Subaru’s cooling system. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Gather your supplies: You’ll need the correct type of Subaru coolant, distilled water, a drain pan, a wrench, and gloves.
2. Prepare the vehicle: Park your Subaru on a level surface and allow the engine to cool completely. Place the drain pan under the radiator drain plug.
3. Open the radiator drain plug: Locate the radiator drain plug, usually at the bottom of the radiator. Use a wrench to open the plug and allow the old coolant to drain into the drain pan.
4. Flush the cooling system: Once the old coolant has drained, close the radiator drain plug and fill the system with distilled water. Run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the water, then drain it again. Repeat this process until the drained water is clear.
5. Fill with new coolant: Close the radiator drain plug and fill the cooling system with the correct mixture of Subaru coolant and distilled water (usually a 50/50 mix). Refer to your owner's manual for the specific ratio.
6. Bleed the system: Start the engine and let it run with the radiator cap off to allow any air bubbles to escape. Add more coolant as needed until the level stabilizes.
7. Check for leaks: After bleeding the system, replace the radiator cap and check for any leaks around the radiator, hoses, and drain plug.

Note: If you’re not comfortable performing this task yourself, it’s best to take your Subaru to a qualified mechanic. They have the tools and expertise to properly flush and refill your cooling system.

Final Thoughts

So, circling back to our original question: does your Subaru need special coolant? Absolutely. Using the correct Subaru coolant is crucial for protecting your engine from corrosion, preventing sludge formation, and maintaining the overall health of your cooling system. While it might seem like a small detail, it can make a big difference in the long run. Stick with the recommended Subaru Super Coolant, and you’ll keep your Subaru running smoothly for many years to come. Happy driving, Subaru fam!