How often should you change the coolant in a Subaru crosstrek?
The typical interval for a Subaru Crosstrek is every 100,000 miles (about 160,000 km) or 10 years, whichever comes first, when using Subaru’s Long Life Coolant. If your vehicle is older, or you use a different coolant, check the owner's manual for the exact interval.
Cooling systems are critical to engine longevity, and the Crosstrek’s cooling circuit relies on a specific coolant type and maintenance schedule. This article reviews the official guidance, factors that can affect timing, and practical steps to perform a coolant change safely.
Official guidance and intervals
Subaru’s current guidance for most Crosstrek models with Long Life Coolant (LLC) commonly lists the coolant replacement interval as 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 10 years, whichever comes first. This interval is intended to maintain cooling efficiency and corrosion protection across the system.
Coolant type and compatibility
Use only the coolant specified by Subaru. For most recent Crosstrek models, this means Subaru Long Life Coolant (often pre-mixed 50/50 with distilled water). Do not mix Subaru coolant with other brands or colors, and avoid using generic concentrates unless explicitly approved for your model year by Subaru.
Factors that can affect replacement timing
In practice, some conditions can warrant replacing coolant earlier than the standard interval. Consider these factors when planning service:
- Severe driving conditions: frequent towing, hot climates, or lots of short trips that don’t let the engine reach full operating temperature.
- Signs of coolant degradation: discoloration, sludge, or a sweet smell indicating contamination.
- Coolant leaks or low levels: visible leaks or repeated top-offs despite a leak repair.
- Recent cooling-system work: thermostat, water pump, radiator, hoses, or radiator cap replacements may require a refresh and re-bleed.
Always refer to your owner’s manual for the exact guidance tied to your model year and engine, and seek professional advice if in doubt.
How to replace coolant: step-by-step guide
If you plan to perform the service yourself, use these general steps as a guide. Consult the manual for model-year specifics and consider having a professional handle the job if you lack the proper tools or experience.
- Park on a level surface and let the engine cool completely before opening the cooling system. Do not open the radiator cap when hot.
- Place a drain pan under the radiator drain plug. Open the drain and allow the coolant to fully drain from the system.
- If your Crosstrek has additional drain points (engine block or heater-core circuit), open those to ensure complete drainage.
- Close the drains after draining, then (optional) flush the system with distilled water until the outflow runs clear.
- Re-fill with the recommended coolant. For most modern Crosstreks, use the Subaru Long Life Coolant in the prescribed 50/50 mix with distilled water, and fill to the correct level.
- Bleed the cooling system to remove air. With the radiator cap off and heater set to hot, start the engine and run until the thermostat opens and air bubbles subside. Refill as needed.
- Run the engine to operating temperature, recheck coolant level, and look for leaks around hoses and fittings. Top off to the proper level if necessary.
- Dispose of old coolant responsibly at a proper recycling facility and never pour it down drains or onto the ground.
Procedures can vary slightly by model year, so confirm the exact bleeding method and torque specs in the owner’s manual or with a Subaru-certified technician.
What to do if you're unsure
If you’re uncomfortable performing a coolant change, or if you notice persistent leaks, overheating, or a milky/oily residue in the coolant, have a dealership or certified mechanic inspect the cooling system. Using the wrong coolant or an improper bleed can lead to overheating and engine damage.
Summary
For most Subaru Crosstrek models, plan a coolant change every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 10 years, whichever comes first, when using Subaru Long Life Coolant. Always verify the exact interval in your owner's manual, as yearly climate conditions and driving habits can influence timing. Use only Subaru-approved coolant, perform a thorough bleed, and dispose of used coolant properly. Regular maintenance helps prevent overheating and protects the engine’s longevity.
