When did Honda switch to blue coolant?
Honda has long been known for its commitment to engineering excellence and vehicle longevity. One of the key aspects of maintaining a Honda vehicle is understanding its coolant requirements. Over the years, Honda has made changes to its coolant formulations, including a notable switch to blue coolant. In this article, we’ll explore when and why Honda made this change, and what it means for Honda owners.
The Transition to Blue Coolant
Honda began transitioning to blue coolant in the early 2000s. Specifically, the switch started with the 2006 model year vehicles. Prior to this, Honda vehicles used green coolant, which was a conventional ethylene glycol-based formula. The introduction of blue coolant marked a shift towards a more advanced, long-life coolant designed to improve engine performance and reduce maintenance requirements.
Why Did Honda Switch to Blue Coolant?
The decision to switch to blue coolant was driven by several factors, including advancements in coolant technology and the desire to provide better protection for Honda engines. Here are the key reasons behind the change:
- Extended Lifespan: Blue coolant is a long-life formula that can last up to 5 years or 60,000 miles before needing replacement, compared to the shorter lifespan of green coolant.
- Improved Corrosion Protection: The blue coolant contains advanced corrosion inhibitors that help protect the engine and cooling system components, such as the radiator and water pump, from rust and wear.
- Compatibility with Modern Engines: Honda's newer engines are designed to work optimally with the blue coolant, ensuring better heat transfer and overall performance.
What Should Honda Owners Know?
If you own a Honda vehicle manufactured after 2006, it likely requires blue coolant. Here are some tips to ensure proper maintenance:
- Check Your Owner’s Manual: Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to confirm the recommended coolant type and replacement intervals.
- Use Genuine Honda Coolant: To ensure compatibility and performance, use genuine Honda blue coolant rather than aftermarket alternatives.
- Don’t Mix Coolants: Mixing blue coolant with green or other types of coolant can reduce its effectiveness and potentially harm your engine.
Conclusion
The switch to blue coolant was a significant step forward for Honda, reflecting the company’s dedication to innovation and vehicle longevity. By using the correct coolant and following recommended maintenance practices, Honda owners can ensure their vehicles continue to perform reliably for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What color is Honda Type 2 coolant?
Blue Coolant
Genuine Honda Type 2 Blue Coolant | PRE-MIXED | All Hondas. Tax Included (UK only) Shipping calculated at checkout.
What is the difference between Honda Type 1 and Type 2 coolant?
To my knowledge Type 1 is pure 100% and Type 2 is premixed 50/50. So no difference at all. Just have to mix Type 1 with 50% water.
Can I replace green coolant with blue?
Some people do not see anything bad with it, as long as the type of coolant matches the one already in the system. However, according to experts, it is best not to mix different coolant colors - just for safety.
Is Honda coolant blue?
Honda Genuine Longlife Blue Coolant provides long-term corrosion protection to all metal and non-metal parts of your Honda's cooling system and protects against boil over and freezing. Honda Genuine Longlife Pre-mixed Coolant is the only coolant designed specifically for Honda vehicles.
What colour is Honda Civic coolant?
Honda Coolant Color
You'll find that most Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolants can be found in orange, yellow, red, or purple, while Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants are orange and yellow. However, you also have Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT) coolants that are usually green, or sometimes blue.
Do all Hondas use the same coolant?
Every car manufacturer, including Honda has developed its own coolant or requires a specific coolant that is unique to individual years and models.
What year did Honda start using blue coolant?
A 2004 service bulletin introduced the new blue coolant which is used in ALL Hondas now.
How long does Honda blue coolant last?
Honda Genuine Longlife Blue Antifreeze/Coolant is the only coolant designed specifically for Honda vehicles. Its pre-mixed formulation is so advanced, no coolant service is required for up to 10 years or 120,000 miles. Use Honda Genuine Longlife Blue Antifreeze/Coolant for optimum long-term engine performance.
What vehicles use blue coolant?
Zerex Asian Vehicle Blue Antifreeze/Coolant is proven to maximize engine life in vehicles made by Asian auto manufacturers such as Acura, Honda, Infiniti, Nissan and others which specify a blue formula that's silicate and borate-free with HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology).
What color is the coolant in a 2004 Honda?
PEAK Engine Coolant Antifreeze Yellow Concentrate.
