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What coolant goes in a Toyota Corolla?

The recommended coolant for a Toyota Corolla is a 50/50 mixture of Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) and distilled water. This factory-specified coolant is designed to provide optimal protection for the Corolla's engine and cooling system.


Understanding Coolant Requirements for Toyota Corollas


Toyota Corollas, like most modern vehicles, require a specific type of coolant to function properly and maintain their warranty. The Toyota SLLC coolant is a long-life, ethylene glycol-based fluid that is formulated to resist corrosion, boiling, and freezing, ensuring the engine and cooling system remain in good condition.


Using the wrong type of coolant or a coolant-water mixture that is not 50/50 can lead to a variety of issues, including:



  • Reduced cooling efficiency, leading to engine overheating

  • Accelerated wear and tear on cooling system components

  • Potential damage to the engine and other vital parts

  • Voiding of the vehicle's warranty


It's essential to follow Toyota's recommendations and use the specified SLLC coolant to maintain the Corolla's performance and longevity.


Coolant Maintenance and Replacement


Toyota Corollas typically require coolant replacement every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first. It's important to use the correct 50/50 mixture of Toyota SLLC and distilled water, as this ensures the coolant maintains its optimal properties and provides the necessary protection for the vehicle's cooling system.


Neglecting regular coolant maintenance or using the wrong type of coolant can lead to a variety of problems, including reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and even engine failure in severe cases. By following Toyota's recommended coolant specifications and maintenance schedule, Corolla owners can help ensure their vehicle runs smoothly and reliably for years to come.

Do Toyotas need special coolant?


Yes, Toyota uses specific, often proprietary, antifreeze formulas, including a pink Super Long Life Coolant for most models made after 2004 and a red Long Life Coolant for older or different models. It is crucial to use the correct type for your specific Toyota to ensure proper engine protection.
 
Different Toyota antifreezes

  • Pink (Super Long Life Coolant): This is the coolant for most modern Toyotas and uses a hybrid organic acid technology. It is designed for longer service intervals.
  • Red (Long Life Coolant): Used in older models, this coolant uses an inorganic acid technology and requires more frequent replacement.
  • Blue (Super Long Life Coolant): Used for certain Toyota models that share a Subaru boxer engine, like the 86 or BRZ.
  • Green (Frostox HT-12): Used in Toyota models that share a BMW engine. 

How to choose the right coolant
  • Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for the specific type of coolant your vehicle requires. 
  • Look at the coolant color in your reservoir: If the color is currently pink, you can likely use more pink coolant. If it's red, use more red. However, never mix different colors, as they may have different chemical compositions. 
  • Consult a professional: If you are unsure, a Toyota dealership service department can tell you the correct coolant for your car. 



What kind of coolant for 2015 Toyota Corolla?


The 2015 Toyota Corolla uses a pink or red Super Long Life Coolant, which is a type of HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant. You can use either the genuine Toyota coolant or a compatible third-party coolant that specifically states it is safe for Toyota vehicles. It is crucial to use the correct type and avoid mixing colors to prevent damage to the system.
 
Coolant type

  • Genuine Toyota Super Long Life Coolant: This is the recommended coolant for your 2015 Corolla. 
  • Compatible Asian Vehicle coolants: Look for a pink or red coolant from brands like Prestone or Zerex that are labeled as being compatible with Toyota vehicles. 

Important considerations
  • Color: Never mix different coolant colors. If your vehicle currently has green coolant, the system must be thoroughly flushed before refilling it with the correct pink or red coolant. 
  • Mixture: You can purchase pre-mixed (50/5050 / 5050/50) coolant or a concentrate that you will need to mix with distilled water. 



What coolant does a Toyota Corolla need?


Toyota Pink Super Long Life Coolant.
Ethylene Glycol (107-21-1)



Is green coolant ok for Toyota?


No, you should not put green coolant in your Toyota because it uses a different type of coolant that is not compatible with green coolant. Mixing the two can create a gelatinous substance that clogs the cooling system and causes engine damage. Toyota uses a specific HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, often a red color, which is designed for its vehicles.
 
Why you should not use green coolant in a Toyota

  • Incompatible chemistry: Green coolant is an IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) coolant, while Toyotas require a HOAT coolant. 
  • Risk of clumping: When mixed, the chemicals in the two types of coolant can react and form a gel-like substance that can block the radiator, water jackets, and other components. 
  • Potential for damage: Blockages from the chemical reaction can lead to overheating and damage to the water pump, head gasket, and other parts of the cooling system. 
  • Incorrect protection: Green coolants are formulated for older vehicles with different metals and do not provide the right protection for the aluminum components used in modern Toyota engines. 

What to do instead
  • Check your owner's manual: Confirm the correct coolant type for your specific Toyota model. 
  • Use the correct coolant: If your Toyota's coolant needs to be topped off, add the specific HOAT coolant recommended by the manufacturer (often a red or pink color). 
  • Perform a complete flush: If you accidentally put green coolant in your Toyota, you must completely flush the system and refill it with the correct Toyota-specific coolant to avoid damage. 


Kevin's Auto

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.