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Does Honda and Acura use the same coolant?


As a car owner, understanding the specifics of your vehicle's maintenance is crucial for its longevity and performance. One common question that arises among Honda and Acura owners is whether these two brands use the same coolant. Given that both brands are under the Honda Motor Company umbrella, it’s a valid inquiry that deserves a detailed answer.


Understanding Coolant Types


Coolant, also known as antifreeze, plays a vital role in your vehicle's engine cooling system. It helps regulate engine temperature, prevents freezing in cold weather, and protects against corrosion. Different manufacturers often specify unique coolant formulations to meet the specific needs of their engines.


Honda and Acura Coolant Specifications


Honda and Acura vehicles typically use a similar type of coolant, known as Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant. This coolant is formulated with specific additives that provide optimal protection for the engines of both brands. Here are some key points regarding their coolant:



  • Color: Honda coolant is usually a distinctive green or blue color, which helps in identifying it easily.

  • Formulation: Both Honda and Acura coolants are ethylene glycol-based and contain similar corrosion inhibitors.

  • Mixing: It is generally recommended to use the same type of coolant that is already in your vehicle to avoid any potential chemical reactions.


Why It Matters


Using the correct coolant is essential for maintaining the health of your engine. While Honda and Acura share many components and technologies, using the manufacturer-recommended coolant ensures that your vehicle operates efficiently and remains protected against overheating and corrosion.


Conclusion


In summary, Honda and Acura do use the same type of coolant, specifically the Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant. However, it is always best to consult your vehicle's owner manual or a professional mechanic to ensure you are using the correct product for your specific model. Proper maintenance, including using the right coolant, can significantly extend the life of your vehicle.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is Prestone coolant good for Acura?


Trust Prestone – a leading global manufacturer of Original Equipment Antifreeze + Coolant. Can top off or replace any Blue antifreeze + coolant in all Honda; all Acura; Nissan 2009 and newer; Infiniti 2009 and newer & Subaru 2009 and newer vehicles, guaranteed.



Are Honda and Acura the same car?


Acura is actually a branch of Honda, albeit one with its own merits. While the history of Honda shows an automaker providing a wide range of everyday vehicles, Acura was used to break into the luxury car market. In fact, Acura was instrumental in turning the image of Japanese autos from economy-focused to premium.



Does Acura take Honda parts?


Short answer; No. Long answer; The parts you need might possibly be a shared Acura/Honda part, but most Acura dealers have no way of looking that up. If you have a part number, they can certainly check, but if it isn't a part # that belongs to Acura (a Honda Only Part), they can't order it.



Does Acura take special coolant?


Every vehicle manufacturer, incorporating Acura has developed its own coolant or requires a careful coolant that is unique to diverse years and models. There are copious colors of coolants to help distinguish each including yellow, blue, red, green, purple and orange.



Does it matter what brand of coolant I use?


Different vehicles require different coolants. There are varieties for every type of vehicle, from diesel engines to American, Asian and European vehicles. Each one is specifically formulated to keep its designated engine type running in extreme temperatures.



What color coolant for Honda?


Honda Coolant Color
However, you also have Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT) coolants that are usually green, or sometimes blue. Your best bet in identifying the right Honda coolant color for your model is by checking your vehicle's owner's manual and paying attention to the details on the coolant bottle.



Can I use any coolant for a Honda?


Always use Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water. If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not available, you may use another major-brand non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement.



Are Honda and Acura parts interchangeable?


In general, luxury cars are more expensive to maintain due to their higher-end components, and Acura is no exception. However, because Acura shares many mechanical underpinnings with Honda, many parts are interchangeable, which can help in keeping maintenance costs down compared to other luxury brands.



Are Acura engines made by Honda?


In 1986, Acura became the luxury arm of the Honda Motor Corporation. That's right! Your stunning Acura vehicle is produced with the same robust practices that come from Honda.



What happens if you put a different type of coolant?


If you do mix coolant, and the two types of coolant you mix are not compatible, it could create sludge that can block the system, it can also increase corrosion in your engine and cooling system. To rectify this, you'll need to flush the system.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.