Can I use Prestone coolant in a Subaru?
Yes, you can use Prestone coolant in a Subaru, but only if you choose a Prestone formulation that is explicitly compatible with Subaru’s coolant specifications. If there is any doubt, use Subaru Genuine Long-Life Coolant or a Prestone product clearly labeled as Subaru/OEM-compatible.
Subaru vehicles typically require a long-life, ethylene glycol-based coolant that is silicate-free and safe for aluminum components. The key is matching the coolant to Subaru’s approved specifications and avoiding mixtures that could cause corrosion or material incompatibilities. Always verify the exact requirements in your owner’s manual and on the coolant product label before proceeding with purchase or replacement.
What Subaru requires
Subaru’s official guidance centers on using a long-life, ethylene glycol-based coolant that is free of silicates and safe for aluminum engine components. The color of the coolant on many Subarus is blue, and the brand or formulation must be explicitly approved by Subaru or labeled as suitable for Subarus. Using a non-approved formula can affect cooling performance and warranty coverage, so motorists should confirm compatibility before topping off or draining the cooling system.
Key compatibility considerations
When evaluating Prestone products for a Subaru, look for formulations that meet these criteria:
- Silicate-free and phosphate-free formulation to protect aluminum engine parts.
- Ethylene glycol-based long-life coolant suitable for automotive cooling systems.
- Explicit labeling that the product is compatible with Subarus or is approved for use in “All Makes/All Vehicles” with Subaru noted on the label.
- Premixed 50/50 strength or a concentrate you can mix to the proper ratio with distilled water, as specified in your owner’s manual.
- Avoid older green or plain “universal” formulas unless they are confirmed to be Subaru-approved and silicate-free.
Following these checks helps ensure the coolant will protect the cooling system, radiator, and engine without risking corrosion or gasket damage. If in doubt, consult a Subaru dealer or a trusted mechanic for guidance tailored to your model year.
Understanding Prestone formulations
Prestone markets several coolant lines aimed at different vehicle types. The critical takeaway for Subaru owners is to pick a product that is labeled as compatible with Subarus, or one that is clearly silicate-free and suitable for aluminum engines. Here are the kinds you’re likely to encounter:
- Silicate-free, long-life formulas designed for a wide range of makes and models.
- Asian-vehicle specific formulations that may be compatible with Subaru, but only if labeled accordingly.
- OEM-approved or Subaru-specific options—these are the safest choices when available.
Remember, not all Prestone formulas are interchangeable. Always read the label carefully to confirm compatibility with Subarus and proper use instructions, including whether the product is premixed or requires dilution with distilled water.
Practical steps for replacing or topping up
To minimize risk to the cooling system, follow a clear process when adding or replacing coolant in your Subaru.
- Check your owner’s manual for the exact coolant specification and the recommended mix ratio.
- If you’re switching to Prestone, drain the old coolant and flush the system if advised, especially if the existing coolant is a different type.
- Use a Prestone formulation that is labeled as Subaru-compatible or silicate-free and ethylene glycol-based; premixed 50/50 is usually easiest to use.
- Do not mix different coolant chemistries unless the manufacturer explicitly approves it.
- Refill to the proper level, run the engine to operating temperature with the heater on, then recheck for leaks and top off as needed.
Following these steps helps ensure the cooling system performs as designed and maintains engine protection across temperature cycles.
What to do if you’ve already used a different coolant
If your Subaru currently contains a coolant that might not meet Subaru specs, consider having the system flushed and refilled with a Subaru-approved formula at a repair shop. Mixing incompatible coolants can lead to reduced cooling efficiency, gasket wear, or corrosion over time.
Bottom line
In short, you can use Prestone coolant in a Subaru, provided the product is explicitly compatible with Subaru specifications (silicate-free, long-life, ethylene glycol-based, and safe for aluminum components). If you cannot confirm compatibility, it’s safer to use Subaru Genuine Long-Life Coolant or a Prestone formula clearly labeled as Subaru/OEM-approved. When in doubt, consult your dealership or a qualified mechanic.
Summary
Choosing the right coolant for a Subaru hinges on compatibility and material safety. Look for Prestone options that are clearly Subaru-approved or silicate-free, long-life formulations suitable for aluminum engines. Always verify with the owner’s manual and label information, and don’t mix coolant types unless explicitly guided by the manufacturer. A properly matched coolant protects the cooling system and helps maintain performance across seasons.
Do Subaru's need special coolant?
Yes, Subarus need a specific coolant, primarily the factory-filled "Super Coolant," which is a special blue Subaru coolant. Before 2008, Subarus used a long-life green coolant. While a high-quality universal Asian blue coolant can be used, it's crucial to use the correct type for your specific Subaru model and year to ensure proper corrosion protection, especially for its aluminum engine components.
Coolant types and considerations
- Blue Subaru Super Coolant: This is the current standard, introduced after 2008, and is a premixed, long-life formula designed specifically for Subaru's aluminum engines. It has a much longer service interval than older coolants.
- Green Subaru Long Life Coolant: This was used in Subarus before 2008. It is an ethylene glycol-based coolant that is not premixed and requires mixing with water to the correct ratio, which can be more challenging to get right.
- Universal Asian Blue Coolant: A high-quality universal Asian blue coolant can be used as a substitute for Subaru's blue Super Coolant. This coolant is also designed to protect aluminum engines and can be a good option if you can't get the Subaru-brand product.
Important tips
- Always check your owner's manual: The most accurate information for your specific Subaru model will be in your owner's manual.
- Don't mix coolants: Never mix green and blue coolant, as they are not formulated to be compatible with each other.
- Consider the warranty: If your car is still under warranty, using the specified Subaru coolant is recommended to avoid voiding the warranty.
- Don't use universal coolants indiscriminately: While some universal coolants may work, it's crucial to ensure the universal coolant is specifically formulated for Asian vehicles to protect against corrosion and other damage.
What's the best coolant for a Subaru?
You want to use Subaru Super Coolant. Swing by your dealer and grab a gallon of it. It should already be a 50/50 mix so you don't need to add water.
Can I use another coolant with a Subaru?
You should not use aftermarket long life coolant like Dex Cool. I do not suggest any form of aftermarket stop leak.
Can you put Prestone coolant in any car?
Yes, you can put Prestone coolant in any car because their universal formulas are designed to be compatible with all makes, models, and existing coolant types, even if they are different colors. Prestone's patented technology prevents the harmful reactions that can occur when mixing other coolants, so there's no need to flush your system before adding it, making it safe for top-ups or a full fill.
This video explains why Prestone coolant is suitable for use in any car: 29sPrestone OfficialYouTube · Jul 21, 2021
Why Prestone is universal
- Compatibility: Prestone's products are specifically formulated to work with all types of coolant technologies, including IAT, OAT, POAT, and HOAT, regardless of the coolant's color.
- Patented formula: Its unique and patented formula is designed to be mixed with other coolants without causing damage, gelling, or clogging in the system.
- Protection: The coolant provides protection against corrosion and temperature extremes for all cooling system metals, including aluminum.
- Ease of use: You can safely top up your current coolant with Prestone or use it to refill your system after a flush and fill.
