What type of coolant for 2012 Toyota Yaris?
The 2012 Toyota Yaris uses a Toyota-approved ethylene glycol-based coolant, most commonly Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant (LLC) or an equivalent that meets Toyota specifications. It should be used in a 50/50 mix with distilled water unless you purchase premixed coolant.
Overview of the coolant requirement
Toyota designs its cooling system to work best with a specific type of long-life, silicate-free coolant. Using the wrong formulation can lead to corrosion, deposits, or overheating, and may affect warranty coverage. The key is to choose a product that is explicitly labeled as meeting Toyota's coolant specifications, and to maintain the correct mixture ratio.
Below are the options and best practices to ensure you stay within spec.
- Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant (LLC) or Toyota Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) — ethylene glycol-based and designed specifically for Toyota engines. In many markets this appears as a pink/red colored coolant.
- Equivalent, high-quality HOAT or OAT coolant that is explicitly labeled as meeting Toyota specifications and is silicate-free. Ensure the product states compatibility with Toyota vehicles or mentions meeting OEM standards.
- Avoid using Dex-Cool, green inorganic, or universal coolants unless the product explicitly states Toyota approval or compatibility with Toyota engines.
Options that meet the Yaris-ready specification generally fall into two groups: official Toyota products or high-quality aftermarket coolants that explicitly state compatibility with Toyota vehicles.
Using the recommended coolant type helps protect cooling-system metals, seals, and heater cores, while providing the right freeze/boil protection for your climate.
Mixing, maintenance, and replacement steps
When replacing or topping up coolant, follow these practical steps to ensure proper performance and safe disposal.
- Ensure the engine is completely cool before opening the cooling system.
- Place a large drain pan under the radiator drain plug and/ or engine drain point, then drain old coolant completely.
- Optionally flush the system with distilled water if the coolant is dirty or you’re changing coolant types from one formulation to another.
- Refill with a 50/50 mixture of distilled water and coolant if you’re using concentrate; use premixed 50/50 coolant if you have it.
- Start the engine and run to operating temperature with the radiator cap loosened a bit to vent air, then re-tighten the cap and check for leaks.
- Check the coolant reservoir level when the engine is cool; add more mixture if needed to reach the recommended level.
- Dispose of old coolant responsibly at an authorized recycling facility and never pour it down drains or onto the ground.
If you’re unsure about performing a coolant change yourself, or your Yaris is still under warranty, consult a certified technician or a Toyota dealer.
Market and color notes
Color can vary by market, but many 2012 Toyota Yaris owners see pink/red long-life coolant in factory or OEM-equivalent formulations. Always verify that your chosen product explicitly states compatibility with Toyota vehicles and matches the long-life, silicate-free spec recommended by Toyota.
Summary
For a 2012 Toyota Yaris, use Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant or an equivalent, silicate-free coolant that explicitly meets Toyota specifications, mixed 50/50 with distilled water (or premixed 50/50). Avoid non-approved formulations unless they are clearly labeled as Toyota-approved. Follow proper replacement steps, bleed the system as needed, and dispose of old coolant responsibly. When in doubt, rely on a Toyota dealer or qualified mechanic for installation.
What type of coolant does a 2012 Toyota Yaris take?
Notes: Engine Coolant / Antifreeze. OEM by Prestone Antifreeze/Coolant Toyota 50/50 premixed 1 Gallon.
What color coolant goes in a Toyota?
Toyota coolants are typically red or pink, with pink being the newer "Super Long Life" formula used in most modern Toyotas. Older models often use a "Long Life" red coolant. It's important to use the correct color for your specific vehicle, as they have different additive technologies, and to check your owner's manual for the exact type recommended.
Toyota coolant colors
- Pink: This is the modern "Super Long Life" coolant used in most newer Toyota models. It is a pre-mixed, long-lasting formula.
- Red: This is the older "Long Life" coolant. It is a more affordable option, sometimes sold as a concentrate, and requires more frequent replacement than the pink coolant.
Important considerations
- Compatibility: The newer pink coolant is generally backward compatible with older vehicles that use red coolant. However, for best performance, it is ideal to use the specified type for your vehicle.
- Check your manual: Always consult your owner's manual to determine the correct coolant type for your specific make and model to ensure the right protection.
- Avoid mixing: It is best to avoid mixing different colors of coolant if possible, especially if you're unsure of their compatibility.
What kind of coolant does a Toyota Yaris take?
The correct coolant for a Toyota Yaris is Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC), which is pink or red, or a high-quality equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant. Always check your owner's manual for the exact specification and never use a universal green coolant, as mixing coolant types can cause damage.
This video demonstrates how to top up the coolant in a Toyota Yaris: 32sChannel 1YouTube · Apr 17, 2017
Key points on Toyota Yaris coolant
- Official recommendation: Use Genuine Toyota Super Long Life Coolant, which is a pink or red HOAT coolant.
- Equivalent alternatives: If not using the official Toyota coolant, use a HOAT coolant from a reputable brand. Be sure to use a product specifically designed for Asian vehicles or a universal HOAT formula.
- What to avoid: Do not use traditional green IAT coolant or any coolant that is not a HOAT or a specific Toyota equivalent. Mixing coolant types can cause corrosion and damage the cooling system.
- Check your manual: Your owner's manual is the definitive source for the correct type and change intervals. You can also find your specific vehicle's VIN to ensure you buy the right part.
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.
