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What coolant does an FRS take?

The FR-S (also sold as the Toyota 86) uses Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant (LLC) in a premixed 50/50 ratio. In most markets, this pink/red coolant is the recommended option, and using a non-OEM or incompatible coolant can cause cooling issues or damage.

Overview of the FR-S coolant requirement

The cooling system in the FR-S requires a long-life, ethylene glycol–based coolant that is compatible with Toyota engines and seals. The official guidance from Toyota and the FR-S lineage is to use a Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant or an equivalent that explicitly meets Toyota's long-life coolant specification. It is typically sold premixed 50/50 with distilled water, ready to pour into the reservoir.

What to use

Below are the common options you might encounter when shopping for FR-S coolant.

Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant (premixed 50/50) — pink/red coolant designed for Toyota engines and recommended for FR-S installations.

Aftermarket coolant that explicitly states compatibility with Toyota long-life coolant and is premixed 50/50 (or can be mixed to 50/50). Look for labeling that confirms compatibility with Toyota long-life systems.

Bottom line: Use Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant or an OEM-equivalent that is specifically rated for Toyota long-life systems; maintain the 50/50 premix and avoid mixing incompatible coolants.

Maintenance tips

Bleed the cooling system properly after filling to remove air pockets. Use distilled water for any mixing or topping off to avoid mineral deposits. Replace coolant according to Toyota's service intervals and consider a full flush if you are changing brands or have reached longer service intervals.

Summary

The FR-S takes Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant (premixed 50/50), with the common color being pink/red. If you cannot obtain Toyota-branded coolant, use an OEM-equivalent that explicitly meets Toyota's long-life coolant specification and is compatible with Toyota engines. Always perform proper system bleeding and follow recommended maintenance intervals.

What kind of coolant for brz?

PEAK – Original Equipment Asian Blue Antifreeze + Coolant: 50/50 Ready-To-Use, 1 Gallon (Part No. PABB53)

Do Subaru's need special coolant?

Yes, Subarus need a specific coolant, primarily the factory-filled "Super Coolant," which is a special blue Subaru coolant. Before 2008, Subarus used a long-life green coolant. While a high-quality universal Asian blue coolant can be used, it's crucial to use the correct type for your specific Subaru model and year to ensure proper corrosion protection, especially for its aluminum engine components.

Coolant types and considerations

Blue Subaru Super Coolant: This is the current standard, introduced after 2008, and is a premixed, long-life formula designed specifically for Subaru's aluminum engines. It has a much longer service interval than older coolants.
Green Subaru Long Life Coolant: This was used in Subarus before 2008. It is an ethylene glycol-based coolant that is not premixed and requires mixing with water to the correct ratio, which can be more challenging to get right.
Universal Asian Blue Coolant: A high-quality universal Asian blue coolant can be used as a substitute for Subaru's blue Super Coolant. This coolant is also designed to protect aluminum engines and can be a good option if you can't get the Subaru-brand product.

Important tips

Always check your owner's manual: The most accurate information for your specific Subaru model will be in your owner's manual.
Don't mix coolants: Never mix green and blue coolant, as they are not formulated to be compatible with each other.
Consider the warranty: If your car is still under warranty, using the specified Subaru coolant is recommended to avoid voiding the warranty.
Don't use universal coolants indiscriminately: While some universal coolants may work, it's crucial to ensure the universal coolant is specifically formulated for Asian vehicles to protect against corrosion and other damage.

What kind of coolant for scion?

Prestone Platinum Asian Red Antifreeze & Coolant Prediluted 50/50, use with Toyota, Lexus and Scion, 1 Gallon.

What kind of coolant does a Toyota take?

Toyota uses two main types of antifreeze: pink Super Long Life Coolant for most newer vehicles (approximately 2005 and later) and red Long Life Coolant for many older or lower-end models. You can check your owner's manual or the current coolant's color to confirm which one is correct for your vehicle.

Pink Super Long Life Coolant

For newer vehicles: This is the standard for most modern Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles.
Formula: It is a specialized, silicate- and borate-free coolant.
Benefits: Provides longer protection and is designed for the specific cooling system components in newer cars.

Red Long Life Coolant

For older vehicles: This was the standard for older Toyota models.
Formula: It is an inorganic acid technology (IAT) coolant.
Note: While it may be used as a top-off for newer vehicles with pink coolant, it will reduce the "super long life" benefits.

How to choose the right coolant

Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable way to determine the correct type for your specific vehicle.
Look at the current coolant: If the current coolant in your car is pink, it's likely you need pink; if it's red, you likely need red.
Consult a professional: A technician at a Toyota service center can also confirm which coolant is right for your vehicle.

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.