2017 Subaru Crosstrek Coolant Capacity & Type

Your 2017 Subaru Crosstrek holds approximately 7.9 to 8.2 quarts (7.5 to 7.8 liters) of coolant in its cooling system, depending on the specific engine and transmission configuration.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 7.9 - 8.2 quarts (7.5 - 7.8 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: Subaru Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) - Blue, Phosphate Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (P-HOAT).
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 Pre-mixed (do not dilute further) or concentrate mixed with distilled water.

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek was typically equipped with a 2.0-liter flat-four engine. While capacity can vary slightly with transmission (manual vs. automatic), the overall range remains consistent.

Flush Interval

Maintaining your cooling system with regular flushes is crucial for the longevity of your 2017 Subaru Crosstrek.

• Normal Duty: Subaru recommends replacing the Super Long Life Coolant every 137,500 miles or 11 years, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If you operate your vehicle under severe conditions (e.g., frequent towing, extreme temperatures, dusty environments), consider reducing the flush interval to every 60,000 miles or 5 years, or as recommended by your service technician.

How to Refill & Bleed

Properly refilling and bleeding air from your Subaru's cooling system is vital to prevent overheating and ensure efficient cooling. Subaru engines can be particularly sensitive to air pockets.

1. Preparation: Ensure the engine is completely cool. Park the vehicle on a level surface. Wear appropriate safety gear (gloves, eye protection).
2. Drain: Loosen the petcock on the bottom of the radiator and remove the radiator cap to allow the old coolant to drain into a suitable collection pan. Also, drain from the engine block if accessible.
3. Flush (Optional but Recommended): After draining, you can flush the system with distilled water until it runs clear. Refill with distilled water, run the engine to operating temperature with the heater on high, then drain again. Repeat until the drained water is clear. This ensures all old coolant and contaminants are removed.
4. Refill: Close the radiator petcock. Slowly fill the radiator with the correct Subaru Super Long Life Coolant (50/50 pre-mix). Fill the reservoir to the "FULL" mark. Take your time to minimize air entrapment.
5. Bleed Air: Leave the radiator cap off. Start the engine and let it warm up to operating temperature with the heater set to maximum heat and fan speed. As the engine warms, coolant level in the radiator may drop as air purges. Continue to top off the radiator with coolant. Squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses several times to help release trapped air.
6. Subaru Coolant Air Bleeding Funnel: For Subaru vehicles, a specialized coolant burping funnel (often called a "spill-free funnel") is highly recommended. This attaches to the radiator neck, allowing you to fill it, preventing spills and creating a taller column of coolant to aid in pushing air out.
7. Monitor: Once the thermostat opens (you'll feel the upper radiator hose get hot and coolant will circulate), continue to run the engine for several minutes. Keep an eye on the coolant level in the funnel/radiator. Blips of air bubbles should eventually stop. Install the radiator cap.
8. Final Check: After a test drive, let the engine cool completely and recheck the coolant level in the overflow reservoir. Top off if necessary.

Common Cooling System Issues for this Generation

Owners of 2017 Subaru Crosstrek vehicles, and this generation of Subaru in general, might encounter a few common cooling system issues:

• Head Gasket Leaks: Subaru's non-turbo engines of this era are less prone to external head gasket leaks than older generations, but internal leaks can still occur, leading to coolant consumption or mixing with oil. White smoke from the exhaust or an oily residue in the expansion tank can be indicators.
• Radiator Leaks: Over time, the plastic end tanks of the radiator can become brittle and crack, leading to coolant leaks. Visible pink or blue crusty residue around the radiator seams or bottom is a sign.
• Water Pump Failure: The water pump, like any mechanical component, can eventually fail, leading to leaks or reduced coolant circulation. A whining noise from the engine bay or coolant dripping from the front of the engine can indicate a failing water pump.
• Thermostat Issues: A stuck-open thermostat can cause the engine to run cooler than optimal, impacting fuel efficiency and heater performance. A stuck-closed thermostat is more serious, leading to rapid overheating. Dashboard temperature gauge fluctuations are often a sign.
• Coolant Expansion Tank Leaks/Cracks: The plastic expansion tank can develop cracks, especially around hose connections, leading to slow coolant loss.

Regular inspection and using the correct Subaru Super Long Life Coolant are your best defenses against these common issues.

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