What coolant to use in 2018 WRX?

For a 2018 WRX, use Subaru Genuine Long Life Coolant Type 2 (a HOAT/PHOAT coolant) or any coolant that explicitly meets Subaru’s Type 2 specification, typically sold pre-diluted as a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Do not mix different coolant types, and follow the vehicle’s manual for maintenance intervals.

Official guidance and recommended fluids

Subaru’s guidance for the 2018 WRX centers on using a long-life, type-specific coolant that protects aluminum engines and maintains cooling performance. The Type 2 designation is the modern standard Subaru uses for these engines, and it is commonly sold as a pink/red HOAT/PHOAT coolant. The key is compatibility with Subaru’s Type 2 specification rather than a brand alone.

What meets Subaru Type 2 specification

The following options align with Subaru’s Type 2 coolant requirement. Before purchasing, verify that the product explicitly states it meets Subaru Type 2 (or OEM Subaru) compatibility and, if possible, that it is suitable for a 2018 WRX engine.

• Subaru Genuine Long Life Coolant Type 2 (pre-mixed 50/50 with distilled water or concentrated if labeled as Type 2 with proper dilution)


• Any HOAT/PHOAT long-life coolant that explicitly lists Subaru Type 2 compatibility on the label or technical data sheet

In practice, many owners prefer the Subaru Genuine option for guaranteed compatibility, but third-party HOAT/PHOAT coolants that specify Subaru Type 2 compatibility are acceptable when clearly labeled.

Mixing, maintenance and cautions

Getting the mix and maintenance right helps ensure optimal cooling system performance and longevity.

Best practices for mixing and replacement

• Follow the bottle instructions: use a 50/50 mixture of coolant and distilled water unless your product is sold pre-diluted.


• Always use distilled water for dilution to avoid mineral deposits.


• Do not mix different coolant chemistries or colors unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it.


• Ensure you properly bleed the cooling system to remove air after refilling; run the engine to operating temperature with the radiator cap removed to vent air, then top off as needed.


• Check for leaks and verify coolant level when the engine is cool; keep the level between the “Full” and “Low” marks on the reservoir.

If you are unsure about the correct product or dilution, consult your owner’s manual or contact a Subaru-certified technician. Proper maintenance intervals should follow the schedule in the owner's manual or the dealership’s service plan.

Where to buy and how to verify compatibility

Buy from reputable sources such as Subaru dealerships or well-known autoparts retailers. When shopping, look for clear labeling that the coolant meets Subaru Type 2 or Subaru OEM specifications. If you opt for a third-party product, keep the technical data sheet and label handy to confirm compatibility with a 2018 WRX engine.

Summary

The safest and most straightforward choice for a 2018 Subaru WRX is Subaru Genuine Long Life Coolant Type 2 (HOAT/PHOAT), either pre-diluted at 50/50 or concentrated with proper dilution, plus verification that any third-party option carries Subaru Type 2 compatibility. Maintain the correct 50/50 mixture, use distilled water, avoid mixing incompatible coolants, and follow the maintenance intervals in your manual to keep the cooling system performing reliably.

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 does a 2018 Subaru take?

The correct coolant for a 2018 Subaru is Subaru Super Coolant (blue), which is a 50/50 pre-diluted antifreeze formulated specifically for Subaru vehicles. While there are other compatible options like Asian blue formulas or universal coolants, using the genuine Subaru product is often required for warranty purposes and is recommended to avoid issues, especially since Subaru's engine design is sensitive to additives found in some other coolants.
 
Recommended coolant

• Genuine Subaru Super Coolant: This is the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) fluid designed for your vehicle. 
• Part Number: SOA868V9270 or SOA868V9272. 
• Form: It is a 50/50 pre-diluted mix, meaning it is ready to use right out of the container. 

Alternative options

• Asian Blue Coolant: Products specifically labeled as "Asian blue" are designed for vehicles that use this type of coolant, such as your Subaru. 
• Universal Coolants: Some universal coolants are formulated to be compatible with all types of antifreeze and are free of certain additives that can harm Subaru engines. Always check the product specifications to ensure it is phosphate-free and compatible with Asian blue formulas. 

Important considerations

• Avoid mixing coolants: Do not mix different types of coolants, as this can cause a gel-like substance to form and clog the radiator. 
• Warranty: Using the genuine Subaru coolant is often a requirement for warranty work. 
• Engine design: Subaru's unique engine design is sensitive to the additives found in some coolants, which is why the specific Subaru Super Coolant is recommended. 

What's the best coolant for a Subaru?

You want to use Subaru Super Coolant. Swing by your dealer and grab a gallon of it. It should already be a 50/50 mix so you don't need to add water.

Is G13 coolant pink or purple?

G13 coolant is typically purple or violet, although it can sometimes appear pink. The color can vary between brands, with some manufacturers using a pinkish-violet hue, but the correct specification is the most important factor.
 

• Official color: G13 is officially a purple or violet color, notes Tomorrow's Technician and Champion Lubricants. 
• Variations: Some products labeled as G13 may look pinkish or have a reddish-purple hue, according to Blauparts and New German Performance. 
• Confusion with G12: The confusion often stems from G12, which is red, and the "G12++" spec, which is a pinkish-purple and compatible with G13. 
• Important consideration: Because the colors can vary, it's crucial to check the vehicle's service manual or the expansion tank for the specific requirement (e.g., G13) rather than relying solely on the color.