How long does Subaru coolant last?
As a Subaru owner, maintaining your vehicle's cooling system is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity. One of the most common questions we hear at Kevin's Autos is, "How long does Subaru coolant last?" In this article, we'll dive into the specifics of Subaru coolant, its lifespan, and tips for maintaining your cooling system effectively.
Understanding Subaru Coolant
Subaru vehicles typically use a specially formulated coolant known as Subaru Super Coolant or Subaru Long Life Coolant. This coolant is designed to provide superior protection against corrosion, overheating, and freezing, ensuring your engine runs smoothly in all conditions. Unlike generic coolants, Subaru's formula is tailored to meet the unique needs of their engines, making it a critical component of your vehicle's maintenance.
How Long Does Subaru Coolant Last?
The lifespan of Subaru coolant depends on the type used and your vehicle's maintenance schedule. Here’s a general guideline:
- Subaru Super Coolant: This coolant is designed to last up to 11 years or 137,500 miles under normal driving conditions. It is a long-life coolant that requires less frequent replacement compared to traditional coolants.
- Subaru Long Life Coolant: This older formulation typically lasts about 30,000 miles or 2 years before needing replacement.
It’s important to note that these intervals are based on ideal conditions. Factors such as extreme temperatures, heavy towing, or frequent stop-and-go driving can impact the coolant's lifespan, requiring more frequent checks and replacements.
Signs Your Subaru Coolant Needs Attention
Even with long-life coolant, it’s crucial to monitor your vehicle for signs that the coolant may need replacement. Here are some common indicators:
- Overheating Engine: If your engine temperature gauge is consistently high, it could indicate low or degraded coolant.
- Coolant Leaks: Puddles of green, blue, or pink fluid under your car may signal a coolant leak.
- Discolored Coolant: Healthy coolant is typically bright and clear. If it appears rusty, cloudy, or has debris, it’s time for a change.
- Sweet Smell: A sweet, syrupy smell inside or outside the car could indicate a coolant leak.
Tips for Maintaining Your Subaru's Cooling System
To keep your Subaru running smoothly, follow these maintenance tips:
- Check your coolant level regularly and top it off if necessary.
- Inspect hoses and connections for leaks or wear.
- Flush and replace the coolant according to Subaru's recommended schedule.
- Use only Subaru-approved coolant to ensure compatibility and performance.
- Schedule regular inspections with a trusted mechanic to catch potential issues early.
Conclusion
Subaru coolant is engineered for longevity and reliability, with the Subaru Super Coolant lasting up to 11 years or 137,500 miles. However, regular maintenance and monitoring are key to ensuring your cooling system performs at its best. If you’re unsure about your coolant’s condition or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Kevin's Autos for expert advice and service. Keeping your Subaru in top shape is our priority!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a car lose coolant without a leak?
If the coolant level is dropping and there is no external leak evident, then the coolant is probably leaking internally, into the engine. If the car has recently overheated then this could have caused the head gasket to fail. If it has, it could be leaking coolant into the combustion chambers.
How often should Subaru coolant be changed?
every 2-3 years
A: The frequency of changing your engine coolant depends on driving style and climate. A good rule of thumb is every 2-3 years, or 24,000 to 36,000 miles. Depending on conditions, you may need to change it more frequently so be sure to check with your Subaru service advisor.
Can coolant last 10 years?
You can typically expect the antifreeze to last 3-5 years in most vehicles, or around 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Some advanced formulations, such as organic acid technology (OAT) coolants, can last up to 10 years or 150,000 miles in newer vehicles.
How quickly does engine coolant go down?
Providing that the engine is running well, with no leakages or damage, you can expect a coolant loss of 0.25% every four to six months. This means a coolant loss of two to three ounces a year is completely normal.
What happens to coolant after 5 years?
Over time, coolant can break down, become contaminated, or lose its anti-corrosion properties. This means that knowing when to change it is crucial for your engine's longevity. Ignoring your coolant can lead to significant issues, including overheating, corrosion, and engine damage.
Why is my coolant low but no leaks?
If the coolant level is dropping and there is no external leak evident, then the coolant is probably leaking internally, into the engine. If the car has recently overheated then this could have caused the head gasket to fail. If it has, it could be leaking coolant into the combustion chambers.
How many miles should coolant last?
If your coolant contains silicates, you should usually consider changing it every two years or after driving 30,000 miles. However, if you choose extended drain coolants, they can last up to five years or 100,000 miles before needing a change.
Is 10 year old antifreeze still good?
Most sealed, new antifreeze products can last up for many years if stored properly in a cool, dark place – perhaps indefinitely. This lifespan is due to the stability of the chemicals when not exposed to air or contaminants.
What is the life expectancy of coolant?
This deteriorated liquid can trigger severe harm to your engine by failing to control the temperature. Therefore, manufacturers suggest replacing the coolant periodically. It is recommended you change coolant after the first 210,000 km (140,000 miles) or 120 months, then every 30,000 km (20,000 miles) or 24 months.
Do subarus lose coolant?
Subarus are known for their reliability and durability, but like any car, they can experience issues over time. One common problem Subaru owners may encounter is a coolant leak. A coolant leak can be a serious issue as it can cause the engine to overheat and lead to engine damage.
