2018 Toyota Tundra Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2018 Toyota Tundra holds approximately 13.9 to 15.1 quarts (13.2 to 14.3 liters) of coolant in its cooling system, depending on the engine. For optimal performance and longevity of your cooling system, it's crucial to use the correct type and amount of coolant.

Quick answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 13.9 - 15.1 quarts (13.2 - 14.3 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) — Pink, Phosphate Organic Acid Technology (P-OAT)
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 Pre-mixed

Capacity by engine option

The 2018 Toyota Tundra was available with two engine options, each with a slightly different coolant capacity:

Always consult your owner's manual for precise specifications for your particular vehicle configuration.

Flush interval

Maintaining the correct coolant and adhering to flush intervals is vital for preventing corrosion and ensuring efficient heat transfer. Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) offers extended service intervals:

• Normal Duty: The initial flush is recommended at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 120 months, whichever comes first. Subsequent flushes are then recommended every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 60 months.
• Severe Duty: If your Tundra is frequently used for towing, heavy hauling, or in extreme climates, more frequent inspections and potentially earlier flushing might be prudent. Consult your Toyota dealer or a trusted mechanic for advice on severe duty intervals.

How to refill & bleed

Refilling and bleeding the cooling system correctly is crucial to avoid air pockets, which can cause overheating. Always perform this procedure on a cold engine.

1. Drain: With the engine cool, open the petcock on the bottom of the radiator and remove the radiator cap to allow the system to drain completely. Some models may also have engine block drain plugs.
2. Close & Fill: Close the petcock and refill the system slowly with the correct Toyota SLLC 50/50 pre-mix through the radiator fill neck. Fill until the coolant level is at the top of the radiator.
3. Bleed Air: Start the engine with the radiator cap off and the heater on full blast (hot). As the engine warms up, the thermostat will open, and air bubbles will begin to escape. Continue to top off the radiator as the level drops. Squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses several times to help dislodge air bubbles.
4. Idle & Monitor: Run the engine until it reaches operating temperature and the cooling fans cycle on and off a few times. Continue to monitor the coolant level, topping off as needed.
5. Reservoir: Once no more air bubbles appear, install the radiator cap and fill the overflow reservoir to the "FULL" line.
6. Final Check: After a test drive, allow the engine to cool completely and recheck the coolant level in both the radiator and the overflow reservoir, adjusting as necessary.

Common cooling system issues

The 2018 Toyota Tundra, like any vehicle, can experience cooling system issues over time. Some common problems observed in this generation may include:

• Water Pump Leaks: The water pump can develop leaks, often indicated by a sweet smell or visible puddles of coolant under the front of the vehicle. This requires replacement of the water pump.
• Radiator Leaks: Radiators can develop leaks from cracks in the plastic end tanks or corrosion in the core, leading to coolant loss and potential overheating.
• Thermostat Failure: A failing thermostat can cause the engine to either run too hot (stuck closed) or take too long to warm up (stuck open), impacting fuel economy and engine wear.
• Hose Leaks/Wear: Radiator and heater hoses can degrade over time, leading to leaks or bursts. Regular inspection for cracks, bulges, or softness is recommended.
• Coolant Reservoir Issues: The plastic overflow reservoir can sometimes crack or develop leaks, leading to a loss of coolant from the reserve system.

Regular maintenance and using the specified Toyota Super Long Life Coolant are key to preventing these issues and ensuring the longevity of your Tundra's cooling system.

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