❄️Coolant Type
Subaru Forester Coolant Type
Find the correct coolant type, color, and capacity for your Subaru Forester. Covers all years with flush intervals and mixing compatibility.
Quick Answer
The Subaru Forester uses manufacturer-specific coolant — typically long-life OAT or HOAT formula. Never mix different coolant types. Check the year breakdown below for your specific coolant color and capacity.
2019-2024
2019-2024Coolant TypeOAT or HOAT (long-life)
Coolant ColorPink, blue, or orange (manufacturer-specific)
Total Capacity6.0 - 10.0 quarts (varies by engine)
Drain & Fill Volume3.0 - 5.0 quarts
Change Interval100,000 miles or 10 years (first), then every 50,000
Concentration50/50 pre-mixed or concentrate mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Notes
- →NEVER mix different coolant types or colors — flush completely when changing brands
- →Always use distilled water, not tap water, when mixing coolant concentrate
- →Modern OAT/HOAT coolants last much longer than traditional green coolant
- →Check coolant level when engine is COLD — opening the radiator cap when hot causes severe burns
2013-2018
2013-2018Coolant TypeOAT or HOAT (long-life)
Coolant ColorPink, blue, or orange (manufacturer-specific)
Total Capacity6.0 - 10.0 quarts (varies by engine)
Drain & Fill Volume3.0 - 5.0 quarts
Change Interval100,000 miles or 10 years (first), then every 50,000
Concentration50/50 pre-mixed or concentrate mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Notes
- →NEVER mix different coolant types or colors — flush completely when changing brands
- →Always use distilled water, not tap water, when mixing coolant concentrate
- →Modern OAT/HOAT coolants last much longer than traditional green coolant
- →Check coolant level when engine is COLD — opening the radiator cap when hot causes severe burns
2007-2012
2007-2012Coolant TypeHOAT or IAT
Coolant ColorGreen, orange, or pink
Total Capacity6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Drain & Fill Volume3.0 - 5.0 quarts
Change Interval60,000 miles or 5 years
Concentration50/50 with distilled water
Notes
- →NEVER mix different coolant types or colors — flush completely when changing brands
- →Always use distilled water, not tap water, when mixing coolant concentrate
- →Check coolant level when engine is COLD — opening the radiator cap when hot causes severe burns
2001-2006
2001-2006Coolant TypeHOAT or IAT
Coolant ColorGreen, orange, or pink
Total Capacity6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Drain & Fill Volume3.0 - 5.0 quarts
Change Interval60,000 miles or 5 years
Concentration50/50 with distilled water
Notes
- →NEVER mix different coolant types or colors — flush completely when changing brands
- →Always use distilled water, not tap water, when mixing coolant concentrate
- →Check coolant level when engine is COLD — opening the radiator cap when hot causes severe burns
1998-2000
1998-2000Coolant TypeIAT (traditional green)
Coolant ColorGreen
Total Capacity6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Drain & Fill Volume3.0 - 5.0 quarts
Change Interval30,000 miles or 2 years
Concentration50/50 with distilled water
Notes
- →NEVER mix different coolant types or colors — flush completely when changing brands
- →Always use distilled water, not tap water, when mixing coolant concentrate
- →Check coolant level when engine is COLD — opening the radiator cap when hot causes severe burns
Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of coolant does a Subaru Forester use?
- The Subaru Forester coolant type depends on the model year. Newer models use long-life OAT or HOAT coolant (often pink, blue, or orange). Older models use traditional green IAT coolant. Never mix types — check the specs below for your year.
- How much coolant does a Subaru Forester hold?
- The Subaru Forester cooling system typically holds 6-10 quarts total. A drain-and-fill replaces about 50-60% of the coolant. For a full system flush, you'll need the complete capacity amount plus extra for bleeding.
- Can I mix coolant colors in my Subaru Forester?
- No — mixing different coolant types can cause gel formation, clogged passages, and overheating. If you don't know what's in the system, do a complete flush before adding new coolant. Use only the manufacturer-specified type.
- How often should I change coolant in my Subaru Forester?
- Modern Subaru Forester models with long-life coolant can go 100,000 miles or 10 years before the first change, then every 50,000 miles. Older models with green coolant need changes every 30,000 miles or 2 years.