Expert Tips on How to Put Coolant in Subaru Legacy: Don’t Miss Out!

Your Subaru Legacy is a reliable companion on the road, but like any vehicle, it needs proper care and maintenance to keep running smoothly. One crucial aspect of that care is ensuring your cooling system is topped off with the right coolant.

This blog post will guide you through the process of adding coolant to your Subaru Legacy, making it a simple and straightforward task. We’ll cover everything from identifying the correct coolant to understanding the proper steps for safe and efficient filling.

Why is Coolant Important?

Coolant, also known as antifreeze, plays a vital role in your Subaru Legacy’s engine health. It circulates through the engine, absorbing excess heat generated during combustion. This prevents your engine from overheating, which can lead to serious damage and costly repairs.

Coolant also acts as an anti-corrosion agent, protecting the engine’s internal components from rust and wear. Additionally, it lowers the freezing point of water in the system, preventing it from freezing in cold weather and causing damage.

Identifying the Right Coolant for Your Subaru Legacy

The first step in adding coolant is ensuring you use the correct type for your Subaru Legacy. Subaru recommends using a Subaru Super Coolant, which is a pre-mixed 50/50 solution of coolant and distilled water.

Here’s why using the recommended coolant is crucial:

• Compatibility: Using the wrong coolant can lead to chemical reactions that damage your engine’s cooling system.
• Protection: Subaru Super Coolant is specifically formulated to provide optimal protection against corrosion, cavitation, and freezing.
• Performance: Using the correct coolant ensures your engine runs at the optimal temperature, maximizing performance and fuel efficiency.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have the following:

• Subaru Super Coolant: You can purchase this at your local Subaru dealership or authorized service center.
• Distilled Water: Using distilled water ensures you don’t introduce impurities into your cooling system.
• Funnel: A funnel will make pouring the coolant into the reservoir easier and prevent spills.
• Clean Cloth: Keep a clean cloth handy to wipe up any spills.
• Gloves: Wearing gloves is recommended to protect your hands from the coolant, which can be irritating.

Locate the Coolant Reservoir

The coolant reservoir is typically located on the driver’s side of the engine compartment, near the front of the vehicle. It’s usually a white or green plastic container with a cap labeled “Coolant” or “Radiator.”

Checking the Coolant Level

Before adding coolant, it’s essential to check the current level.

1. Locate the Coolant Reservoir: Open the hood and find the coolant reservoir.
2. Check the Level: The reservoir has markings indicating the “Full” and “Low” levels. Check the level with the engine cold.
3. Top Off if Necessary: If the level is low, you can safely top it off.

Adding Coolant to Your Subaru Legacy

Important Note: Always add coolant to a cold engine. Never add coolant to a hot engine, as it can cause severe burns.

1. Park on a Level Surface: Make sure your Subaru Legacy is parked on a level surface.
2. Open the Coolant Reservoir Cap: Slowly unscrew the cap to release any pressure.
3. Add Subaru Super Coolant: Using your funnel, carefully add Subaru Super Coolant to the reservoir until it reaches the “Full” mark.
4. Close the Cap: Tighten the cap securely.

Checking for Leaks

After adding coolant, always check for any leaks. Look for any signs of dripping or wet spots around the reservoir and hoses. If you notice any leaks, take your Subaru Legacy to a qualified mechanic for inspection and repair.

Flushing Your Cooling System

While topping off your coolant is a quick fix, it’s essential to flush your cooling system regularly to ensure optimal performance and prevent corrosion.

Here’s why flushing your cooling system is crucial:

• Removes Debris: Over time, debris and contaminants can accumulate in the cooling system, hindering its efficiency.
• Prevents Corrosion: Old coolant can lose its anti-corrosion properties, leading to rust and damage.
• Improves Heat Transfer: A clean cooling system ensures efficient heat transfer, preventing overheating.

How often should you flush your cooling system?

Subaru recommends flushing your cooling system every 30,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first. However, if you live in a harsh climate, you may need to flush it more frequently.

Beyond Coolant: Keeping Your Subaru Legacy Running Smoothly

Adding coolant is just one part of maintaining your Subaru Legacy. Here are a few other essential maintenance tips:

• Regular Oil Changes: Regular oil changes are crucial for engine lubrication and performance.
• Air Filter Replacement: A clean air filter ensures optimal air intake, improving fuel efficiency and engine performance.
• Tire Pressure Check: Maintaining proper tire pressure ensures optimal handling, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity.
• Brake Inspections: Regularly inspect your brake pads and rotors for wear and tear.

Final Thoughts: Your Subaru Legacy’s Health is in Your Hands

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently add coolant to your Subaru Legacy, ensuring its cooling system is functioning properly. Remember, routine maintenance, including coolant checks and flushes, is essential for keeping your vehicle running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs.

What People Want to Know

Q: What happens if I use the wrong type of coolant in my Subaru Legacy?

A: Using the wrong type of coolant can lead to chemical reactions that damage your engine’s cooling system. It can also reduce the effectiveness of the coolant’s anti-corrosion and anti-freeze properties.

Q: My coolant reservoir is full, but my engine is still overheating. What should I do?

A: If your engine is overheating despite a full coolant reservoir, there could be an issue with your cooling system, such as a clogged radiator, a faulty thermostat, or a leak in the system. Consult a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

Q: How often should I check my coolant level?

A: It’s a good practice to check your coolant level at least once a month, or more frequently if you notice any unusual symptoms, such as overheating or a sweet smell coming from your engine.

Q: Can I use regular tap water instead of distilled water for my coolant?

A: It’s strongly advised against using tap water for your coolant. Tap water contains minerals and impurities that can lead to corrosion and damage to your cooling system. Always use distilled water.

Q: How do I know if my coolant needs to be flushed?

A: Subaru recommends flushing your cooling system every 30,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first. However, if you notice any discoloration or rust in your coolant, or if it has a strong odor, it’s a sign that it needs to be flushed.