2021 Toyota Tacoma — Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma holds approximately 9.3 to 10.7 quarts (8.8 to 10.1 liters) of coolant in its cooling system, depending on the engine. For optimal performance and longevity, it's crucial to use the correct type and amount of coolant.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 9.3 - 10.7 quarts (8.8 - 10.1 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) - Pink, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) with a phosphate additive (often referred to as a P-HOAT coolant). Toyota Part Number: 00272-SLLC2.
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 prediluted or concentrate mixed with distilled water.

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma was available with two engine options, each having a slightly different coolant capacity:

Always consult your owner's manual for the most precise figures for your specific vehicle configuration.

Flush Interval

Maintaining your coolant is essential for preventing overheating and corrosion. Toyota recommends the following intervals for coolant flushes and replacements:

• Normal Duty: Initial replacement at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 120 months, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 60 months thereafter.
• Severe Duty: If you frequently tow, drive in extreme temperatures, or in dusty conditions, it's advisable to shorten these intervals. Consider replacing your coolant every 60,000-75,000 miles or every 5 years.

How to Refill & Bleed

Refilling and bleeding the cooling system on a 2021 Toyota Tacoma is a critical step to ensure all air is purged, preventing hot spots and overheating. Always perform this procedure on a cool engine.

1. Drain Old Coolant: With the engine cool, place a drain pan under the radiator. Open the radiator drain cock (usually on the bottom of the radiator) and remove the radiator cap to allow the system to drain completely.
2. Close Drain & Flush (Optional): Close the drain cock. If flushing, fill with distilled water, run the engine with the heater on until warm, then drain again. Repeat until clear water drains.
3. Fill with New Coolant: Close the radiator drain. Slowly fill the radiator with the specified Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) 50/50 mix until it reaches the top. Fill the overflow reservoir to the "MAX" line.
4. Bleed the System:
   • Start the engine and let it idle with the radiator cap off. Turn the heater to its highest setting and fan to low.
   • As the engine warms, coolant level may drop; top it off as needed.
   • Look for air bubbles escaping the radiator fill neck. Gently squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses to help dislodge air pockets.
   • Run the engine until the thermostat opens (the upper radiator hose will become hot) and the cooling fans cycle on and off a few times.
   • Once no more bubbles are visible and the coolant level stabilizes, install the radiator cap.
5. Final Check: Drive the vehicle for a short distance, then allow it to cool completely. Recheck the coolant level in the overflow reservoir and top up if necessary.

Some technicians may opt for a vacuum filler to ensure a complete fill and eliminate air pockets more efficiently, especially after a major component replacement.

Common Cooling System Issues

While the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is generally reliable, some common cooling system issues across this generation (3rd Gen, 2016-present) can include:

• Water Pump Leaks: Although not extremely common, some owners have reported water pump leaks developing over time, often manifesting as a pink crusty residue near the pump or a noticeable drip.
• Radiator Leaks: Road debris or age can lead to minor leaks in the radiator, particularly around the plastic end tanks if applicable.
• Thermostat Failure: A failing thermostat can cause the engine to run too hot or too cold, impacting fuel efficiency and engine longevity. Symptoms include erratic temperature gauge readings or the engine taking a long time to warm up.
• Hose Leaks: Over time, radiator and heater hoses can degrade and crack, leading to coolant leaks. Regular inspection is key.
• Coolant Expansion Tank Issues: The plastic overflow reservoir can sometimes develop cracks, leading to slow coolant loss.

Regular inspection of your coolant level, color, and condition, along with checking for any visible leaks, can help identify and address these issues early.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.