What color coolant for Subaru Crosstrek?
The Crosstrek uses pink long-life coolant that meets Subaru’s Type 2 specification. In practice, this means Subaru Genuine Long Life Coolant Type 2, or an equivalent product clearly labeled as Subaru Type 2 compatible.
Color alone isn’t a foolproof guide to the right coolant. Modern Crosstrek engines require an OAT (organic acid technology) formulation that protects the cooling system over a long interval. Always check the bottle for the Type 2 designation, follow the dilution instructions, and avoid mixing with non-Type 2 coolants unless the manufacturer confirms compatibility with your model.
Understanding the Right Coolant for the Crosstrek
Pink is the traditional color associated with Subaru’s Type 2 long-life coolant. The crucial factor is the Type 2 specification on the label, not the color alone. Using a coolant that does not meet Type 2 can compromise protection and potentially affect longevity of the cooling system.
Recommended coolant options
To ensure compatibility and avoid warranty issues, use one of the following:
- Subaru Genuine Long Life Coolant Type 2 (pink). This is the official recommendation for Crosstrek models.
- Any third-party coolant that explicitly states compatibility with Subaru Type 2 / Subaru long-life Coolant Type 2 on the label and is pink in color.
Choosing the right coolant means confirming Type 2 compatibility and the pink coloration, or explicitly verifying Subaru Type 2 compatibility on the bottle. If in doubt, consult a Subaru dealer or a qualified mechanic. Mixing coolants or using a non-Type 2 formulation can shorten cooling system life.
How to use and maintain coolant
Many Crosstrek models come with a pre-mixed 50/50 coolant and distilled water blend. If you buy concentrated coolant, mix it with distilled water to achieve a 50/50 ratio before pouring. Always use distilled water to avoid mineral deposits that can affect cooling performance. Do not reuse old coolant; drain and flush the system if you are switching to a different type or a different color family.
Refer to the owner's manual for the recommended replacement intervals. Subaru typically suggests coolant replacement around the 100,000-mile mark, with earlier service possible under severe driving conditions. A professional should inspect hoses, radiator cap, and radiator for leaks during service.
Bottom line and summary
For a Subaru Crosstrek, pink long-life coolant that meets Subaru Type 2 specification is the correct choice. The pink color is a helpful indicator, but always verify the Type 2 label on the bottle and follow the manual for dilution and replacement intervals. If you are unsure, seek advice from a Subaru dealer or qualified technician.
Summary: The Crosstrek requires pink long-life coolant Type 2 (Subaru Genuine Long Life Coolant Type 2) or an equivalent explicitly meeting Subaru Type 2. Do not rely on color alone; verify the Type 2 specification, use the proper 50/50 mix or premixed coolant, and replace per the intervals in your owner's manual.
What kind of coolant does Subaru use?
Subaru uses two main types of coolant: their traditional long life green coolant for older models and the modern Super Coolant (blue) for vehicles made after 2008. The blue Super Coolant is a premixed, ethylene glycol-based coolant designed for Subaru's specific engine needs and has longer service intervals (up to 100,000 miles). It is critical to use the correct type for your vehicle, as the blue Super Coolant is designed to prevent corrosion and silicate gelling, and is the required coolant for newer models.
Subaru coolant types
- Subaru Long Life Green Coolant: Used in models prior to 2008. It is sold as a concentrate that must be mixed with distilled water to a 50/50 ratio. This requires a service interval of about 30,000 miles.
- Subaru Super Coolant (blue): Used in models from 2008 and later. It is a premixed, ethylene glycol-based coolant that is specifically formulated for Subaru's aluminum engines and does not contain silicates or borates. It has a much longer service interval, up to 100,000 miles, and is available as a 50/50 premix.
What to know before choosing
- Match your car's coolant: For a flush or top-off, use the same color coolant that is already in the system. Using the wrong type can cause compatibility issues, especially with older green coolant which may require more frequent flushing.
- Check your owner's manual: For the most accurate information on what coolant is right for your specific model and year, consult your owner's manual or a Subaru service technician.
- Use OEM or equivalent: Subaru requires that its engines use coolant that meets their OEM specifications and does not contain Supplemental Coolant Additives (SCAs). While some universal coolants may be compatible, it is safest to stick to Subaru's genuine coolant or a product that explicitly meets the ASTM D3306 standard and is formulated for Asian vehicles.
What are the colors for the Subaru crosstrek?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek has twelve different exterior color options: Alpine Green, Crystal Black Silica, Crystal White Pearl, Daybreak Blue Pearl, Geyser Blue, Ice Silver Metallic, Lithium Red Pearl, Magnetite Gray Metallic, Offshore Blue Metallic, Pure Red, Sapphire Blue Pearl, and Sun Blaze Pearl.
What kind of coolant does a Subaru crosstrek take?
The recommended antifreeze for a Subaru Crosstrek is Subaru Genuine Super Coolant blue, which is a 50/50 pre-mixed coolant. Alternatively, you can use a compatible blue Asian vehicle long-life antifreeze/coolant, such as Prestone Asian Vehicles (Blue) antifreeze+coolant. It is crucial to use the correct type to avoid potential damage.
This video shows the location of the coolant reservoir in a Subaru Crosstrek: 35sDIY PintoYouTube · Nov 13, 2017
Recommended options
- Subaru Genuine Super Coolant: This is the OEM-recommended blue coolant specifically designed for Subaru vehicles.
- Prestone Asian Vehicles (Blue) Antifreeze/Coolant: This is a compatible option that is specifically formulated for Asian vehicles, including Subaru models 2009 and newer.
- Other compatible blue Asian vehicle coolants: Any other brand of blue Asian long-life coolant should also be compatible.
Important considerations
- Do not mix coolants: It is vital to avoid mixing different types or colors of coolant, as they can react, gel, and damage your cooling system.
- Check the color: Look for the blue color, as Subaru models 2009 and newer use this specific type of coolant.
- Use the correct mixture: Ensure you are using a 50/50 pre-mixed formula or that you mix a concentrate with the correct amount of distilled water.
- Consult your manual: Always refer to your owner's manual to confirm the specific requirements for your vehicle's model year.
What kind of coolant does a 2015 Subaru Crosstrek take?
Pentosin – Pentofrost A3 HOAT Phosphated Asian 50/50 Prediluted Antifreeze / Coolant – 1 Gallon (Part No. 8115207)
