What kind of coolant does a Subaru Forester take?
In short, Subaru Foresters typically use Subaru Genuine Long Life Coolant (LLC), an ethylene glycol–based formula that is silicate- and phosphate-free, usually sold in a premixed 50/50 solution with distilled water. Always confirm the exact spec in your owner’s manual or with a dealer for your model year and engine.
Choosing the correct coolant matters because the wrong formula can lead to corrosion, overheating and damage to aluminum engine components. While the basic guidance is consistent across recent Forester generations, regional packaging and labeling can vary. When in doubt, rely on Subaru’s official coolant or a certified equivalent that is specifically rated for aluminum engines and free of silicates and phosphates. Avoid mixing different coolant types without flushing the system first.
What coolant does the Forester typically require?
Most Forester models are designed to run on Subaru Genuine Long Life Coolant (LLC). This ethylene glycol–based coolant is formulated to be silicate- and phosphate-free and compatible with aluminum engines. It is commonly available as a 50/50 premixed solution with distilled water, though some markets may offer concentrate that you dilute to 50/50. Packaging and naming can vary by region, so verify the exact specification on your bottle and in the vehicle’s manual.
Compatibility notes
Color is not a reliable indicator of compatibility, as coolant colors can vary by generation and market. The important factor is the chemical formulation and suitability for aluminum engine components. If you’re unsure, opt for Subaru Genuine coolant or a third-party product that explicitly states: ethylene glycol base, silicate-free, phosphate-free, and approved for use with aluminum engines.
Below is a concise guide to the essential points about coolant selection for a Forester:
- Subaru Genuine Long Life Coolant (LLC) is the recommended option for most Forester models; many markets label it as Type 2. Verify packaging in your region.
- The coolant should be ethylene glycol–based and free of silicates and phosphates to protect aluminum components and reduce corrosion risk.
- Use premixed 50/50 coolant with distilled water when possible; if using concentrate, mix with distilled water to achieve a 50/50 ratio. Avoid using tap water to prevent mineral buildup.
- Avoid non-Subaru or universal coolants that aren’t explicitly labeled as compatible with aluminum engines or that contain non-approved additives. If using a third-party product, ensure it meets the above criteria and is approved for your vehicle’s year/model.
Adhering to these requirements helps prevent overheating and corrosion and maintains cooling-system reliability over time.
Maintenance and replacement steps
If you are checking or replacing coolant, follow these steps to do it safely and effectively.
- With the engine completely cool, park on level ground and open the hood to access the coolant reservoir and, if applicable, the radiator cap.
- Check the reservoir level; it should be between the MIN and MAX marks. If below minimum, add coolant to bring it up to the proper level.
- Choose the correct 50/50 mix: Subaru Genuine Long Life Coolant (premixed) or a concentrate diluted to 50/50 with distilled water. Do not use tap water.
- To drain and flush (if performing a full service), place a drain pan beneath the radiator drain valve, remove the drain plug, and let the coolant drain completely. Optionally flush with distilled water to remove residual contaminants.
- Refill the system with the 50/50 coolant until the reservoir reaches the MAX line. Reinstall caps securely and run the engine with the heater on to promote circulation.
- Monitor for leaks and re-check levels after the engine reaches operating temperature and then cools again; top up if necessary.
- Dispose of old coolant properly at a recycling facility or automotive shop in accordance with local regulations.
Regular checks and maintenance help preserve cooling-system integrity and engine performance over time.
Where to buy and model-year considerations
While Subaru maintains consistency in coolant formulation, regional packaging and part numbers can vary. Always consult your owner’s manual or a local Subaru dealer for the exact coolant specification for your Forester’s year and engine code.
- Subaru Genuine Long Life Coolant (LLC) is available through Subaru dealers and authorized retailers. Look for the label “Long Life Coolant” and, if indicated for your market, “Type 2.”
- If selecting a third-party coolant, choose a product that is ethylene glycol–based, silicate-free, phosphate-free, and explicitly rated for use with aluminum engines and automotive cooling systems.
In practice, following these guidelines will help ensure you use the correct coolant, protect the cooling system, and maintain optimal performance for your Forester.
Summary
Subaru Foresters generally take Subaru Genuine Long Life Coolant (LLC), a silicate- and phosphate-free ethylene glycol–based coolant, commonly sold in a premixed 50/50 formulation. Always verify the exact specification for your model year and engine, avoid mixing different coolants, and consult the owner’s manual or a Subaru dealer if you’re unsure. Proper selection and maintenance protect against corrosion and overheating and keep your cooling system functioning properly.
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 2016 Subaru Forester take?
50/50 prediluted Asian blue antifreeze/coolant.
What kind of coolant for Subaru Forester 2015?
The correct coolant for a 2015 Subaru Forester is Subaru's blue "Super Coolant," which is a 50/50 pre-diluted mixture, or a compatible Asian-spec blue HOAT antifreeze. It's recommended to use the genuine Subaru coolant to avoid issues, but other compatible Asian vehicle coolants are also an option, such as Prestone's Asian blue or Pentofrost A3.
You can watch this video to learn about the difference between Subaru's blue and green coolant: 1mFlatironsTuningYouTube · Jul 13, 2022
- Official Subaru Coolant: Use the genuine Subaru blue Super Coolant (part number SOA868V9270 or SOA868V9272) for the best results. It is a long-life coolant designed for Subaru vehicles.
- Compatible Alternatives: If you can't find the genuine Subaru coolant, look for an Asian-spec blue HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze. Examples include:
- Pentofrost A3
- Prestone Original Equipment (OE) Asian blue 50/50 Antifreeze/Coolant
- Important Considerations:
- Always choose a 50/50 pre-mixed coolant to ensure the correct water-to-antifreeze ratio.
- Do not mix different types of coolant, as this can cause problems. If you must use a different coolant, be aware that it may shorten the coolant's service interval, say Reddit users.
You can watch this video to learn how to add coolant to your Subaru Forester: 57sfroggyYouTube · Aug 8, 2021
What kind of coolant does a 2018 Subaru Forester take?
The correct coolant for a 2018 Subaru Forester is Subaru's genuine "Super Coolant," which is typically a 50/50 pre-diluted antifreeze. You can also use a compatible Asian vehicle-specific HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, such as Pentofrost A3 or ZEREX Asian Vehicle, but be sure to use a red or pink color coolant and do not mix it with other coolants.
You can watch this video to learn how to change the coolant in a Subaru Forester: 49sJustin RosenthalYouTube · Oct 15, 2025
Options for your 2018 Subaru Forester:
- Genuine Subaru Super Coolant: This is the factory-recommended coolant and is available as a 50/50 pre-diluted mix.
- Compatible Asian Vehicle Coolant: Look for a HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant specifically formulated for Asian vehicles.
- Pentofrost A3: This is a phosphated OAT coolant that is suitable for Asian vehicles using a blue coolant, but it is not compatible with Subaru's red/pink coolant.
- ZEREX Asian Vehicle Red: This is a good option as it is a silicate-free HOAT coolant designed for Asian vehicles and is the correct color.
- PEAK Original Equipment Technology Asian Vehicles Red, Pink: This is another option that is formulated for Asian vehicles.
Important considerations:
- Color is not a reliable indicator of coolant type. While Subaru uses red/pink coolant, other manufacturers may use different colors for their coolants, so it is essential to check the vehicle's specifications.
- Do not mix coolants. Mixing different types of coolants can cause gel formation and clog your radiator, so use either the genuine Subaru coolant or a compatible aftermarket one.
- Refer to the owner's manual. It is always best to consult your 2018 Subaru Forester's owner's manual for the most accurate information on the correct coolant to use.
You can watch this video to learn how to add coolant to your Subaru Forester: 54sfroggyYouTube · Aug 8, 2021
