QuestionDo all 2004 4-cylinder Toyota Camrys (my car) use Toyota super long-life coolant (SLLC)?
I get conflicting stories from the dealer and now suspect that they would have used either type for my coolant replacements. The maintenance guide that came with the car says to replace the coolant at 100K, then every 50K with Toyota SLLC.
I heard the pink SLLC and the red long life coolant (LLC) are not compatible, and the coolant system must be properly flushed if they are to be switched. Is this true?
If so, how do I tell if my coolant is contaminated, and what do I do now?
What is the worst that would happen if I keep it contaminated?
AnswerHi George,
Prestone makes a coolant that is compatible with all designs of Extended life coolants. It would be my guess that, yes, all '04 and later Camry's used that style coolant.
The active ingredients in coolant (Ethylene-Glycol) are forever. That means that the coolant you have in your vehicle will protect from overheating and freezing until the end of time. The reason the manufacturer recommends you replace it after 100K is because of the rust inhibitors and water-pump lubricants. These additives break-down after time and do not perform the tasks they are designed to anymore. If your coolant is still clear, I would just add a booster. Most NEW parts dealers will carry coolant additives that are compatible with ext-life coolants that include WP lubricants as well as rust inhibitors.
Contaminated coolant will typically have small particles of oxidized aluminum floating in it. They are usually grey-ish-white and will appear like pepper in the liquid.
Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
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