How much coolant does a 2008 Lexus IS350 take?
The cooling system of a 2008 Lexus IS350 typically holds about 9 quarts (roughly 8.5 liters) of coolant when filled to the proper level. For best results, use a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol-based coolant and distilled water, unless you’re using a pre-diluted product approved by Lexus. Always verify the exact capacity and coolant specification in your owner’s manual or service manual for your specific vehicle.
What the capacity covers
The term "cooling system capacity" refers to the total amount of coolant contained in the entire cooling circuit: the radiator, engine block, heater core, hoses, and the expansion reservoir. If you perform a full drain and fill, you’ll typically replace around 9 quarts of coolant with a 50/50 mixture. If you’re only topping up after minor losses, the amount will be less and should bring the level up to the “Full” mark on the expansion tank.
Below are the key numbers and guidelines to keep in mind when checking or refilling coolant.
- Total cooling system capacity: approximately 9 quarts (8.5 liters).
- Recommended coolant: Toyota/Lexus approved long-life ethylene glycol coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. If you buy pre-diluted 50/50 coolant, you’ll fill with about 9 quarts of that product.
- Refill guidance: After a full drain, plan to add about 9 quarts of 50/50 mixture to reach the correct level. For minor top-ups, add enough to bring the expansion tank to the “Full” mark, typically a quart or two depending on loss.
Note: Always perform cooling system work only after the engine has cooled, and never open the radiator cap when hot. Use the coolant type specified by Lexus and recheck for leaks after refilling.
Practical steps and tips
When performing a coolant change or top-up, follow these general steps and consult the owner’s/service manual for exact sequences and torque specs.
- Ensure the engine is completely cool, then place a drain pan underneath.
- Open the radiator drain plug (if equipped) and drain the system according to the manual.
- Close the drains, then refill with the recommended 50/50 coolant mixture up to the Full line on the expansion tank.
- Run the engine with the cap off until the thermostat opens, then top off again to remove air pockets.
- Check for leaks and recheck the level after the system cools.
Proper bleeding and level verification are essential to prevent air pockets and overheating. Always dispose of used coolant responsibly.
Summary
For a 2008 Lexus IS350, plan for about 9 quarts (8.5 liters) of coolant when performing a full fill. Use a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol coolant and distilled water unless you are using a premixed product approved by Lexus. Verify exact capacity and specifications in the vehicle’s manual, and follow proper safety and bleeding steps during any drain and fill.
What kind of coolant does a 2008 Lexus IS350 take?
Notes: Engine Coolant / Antifreeze -- Pentofrost A4; Pink, 1 Ga. 2006-2020 Lexus IS350 3.5L V6.
How much coolant does a Lexus IS350 take?
Capacity 9.6 qt. (9.1 L, 8.0 lmp. qt.) Coolant type Use either of the following.
How many gallons of coolant do I need?
You will likely need between 1 and 2 gallons of coolant concentrate to mix with an equal amount of distilled water for a 50/50 solution, but the exact amount depends on your vehicle's cooling system capacity, which can range from 3 to 7 liters (or about 0.75 to 1.75 gallons). It is best to consult your owner's manual or purchase a slightly larger quantity, such as two gallons of concentrate, to ensure you have enough, as some systems can hold more and you may need extra to top off.
How to determine the right amount
- Check the owner's manual: This is the most reliable method, as it will state the exact capacity of your vehicle's cooling system. Look for information under "fluid capacities".
- Estimate based on engine size: If you don't have the manual, you can estimate that 4-cylinder engines generally require between 1 and 2 gallons of a 50/50 mix. Larger engines will need more.
- For a complete flush: If you are doing a full coolant flush, you will likely need more concentrated antifreeze. You can start by adding about 4 gallons of concentrate to a system that holds 8 gallons total, as you can't drain all the old coolant, and then fill the rest with distilled water.
- For topping off: If you are just topping off the system, add enough to reach the "COLD" line on the overflow tank. The amount will be much smaller, likely less than a quart, says this Quora post.
Important tips
- Always use distilled water: Never use tap water, as the minerals can cause corrosion in your cooling system.
- Mix it correctly: Make sure to mix the antifreeze with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio for optimal protection.
- Check the level after service: After refilling, run the engine and keep an eye on the coolant level, as air bubbles may need to be "burped" out of the system.
What kind of coolant does a 2008 Lexus take?
Notes: Engine Coolant / Antifreeze. 50/50 prediluted Asian red antifreeze/coolant.
