Home » FAQ » Honda » What coolant does a Honda Odyssey take?

What Coolant Does a Honda Odyssey Take?

The Honda Odyssey uses Genuine Honda Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2—a blue, pre-mixed 50/50 coolant formulated for Honda/Acura vehicles. If the OEM fluid isn’t available, use a high-quality Asian-vehicle phosphate-OAT (P-OAT) coolant labeled as Honda/Acura compatible and pre-diluted 50/50 with deionized or distilled water. Below are the official specs, alternatives, and maintenance guidance to keep your Odyssey’s cooling system protected.

The Official Specification

Honda specifies Genuine Honda Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 for all modern Odyssey models. It is an ethylene-glycol, phosphate organic acid technology (P-OAT) coolant that is blue in color and sold pre-diluted 50/50 with deionized water. It is formulated without silicates, borates, nitrites, or amines, which helps protect aluminum components and water pumps while minimizing deposits.

Service interval guidance from Honda for vehicles using Type 2 is typically the first replacement at 10 years or 120,000 miles (whichever comes first), then every 5 years or 60,000 miles thereafter. Always confirm with your specific model year’s owner’s manual, as maintenance schedules can vary.

Avoid mixing Honda Type 2 with conventional green silicated coolant or Dex-Cool–type orange coolant. If your Odyssey previously used a different coolant, perform a thorough drain-and-fill or full system flush before switching to Type 2 to preserve inhibitor performance and prevent gel or deposit formation.

Compatible Alternatives If OEM Coolant Is Unavailable

When Genuine Honda Type 2 isn’t on hand, select a reputable Asian-vehicle coolant that explicitly states Honda/Acura compatibility and matches the chemistry (phosphate-OAT), ideally in a blue, pre-mixed 50/50 formulation. The following products are commonly cited as compatible equivalents:

  • Zerex Asian Vehicle Blue 50/50 (Honda/Acura compatible)
  • PEAK OE Technology (OET) Blue for Asian Vehicles – Honda/Acura formula, 50/50
  • Prestone Asian Vehicles Blue 50/50 (Honda/Acura compatible)
  • AISIN Blue Super Long-Life (for Asian vehicles; check Honda compatibility on label)
  • Idemitsu Super Long Life Coolant Blue (Honda/Acura compatible)

Always read the label for “meets Honda/Acura specifications” or similar language and verify it is silicate-free and phosphate-based. Color alone is not a specification; chemistry and stated compatibility are what matter.

How Much Coolant Your Odyssey Needs

Total coolant capacity varies by model year and equipment (e.g., rear HVAC). Because capacities and procedures can change across generations, consult your owner’s manual or a factory service manual for the exact fill volume and bleeding instructions for your specific year. When refilling, use the reservoir and radiator level markings and follow the air-bleeding procedure rather than relying solely on an estimated capacity.

Topping Up and Mixing Guidelines

Correct top-up practices help maintain corrosion protection and temperature control. Follow these do’s and don’ts to avoid issues:

  • Only open the radiator cap when the engine is completely cold to avoid injury and prevent sudden coolant loss.
  • Top up with Genuine Honda Type 2 or a verified Honda-compatible Asian P-OAT coolant. Maintain approximately a 50/50 mix for protection to about -34°F (-37°C).
  • In an emergency, use distilled water to reach the proper level, then restore the 50/50 concentration as soon as possible.
  • Do not mix with conventional green silicated coolant, “universal” coolants that are not Honda-compatible, or Dex-Cool–type orange coolant.
  • Avoid stop-leak additives; they can impair heater cores and small passages.
  • After a drain and refill, bleed air from the system per the manual: run the engine to operating temperature with the heater on high, allow the thermostat to open, and verify steady heat output while monitoring the coolant level.

Following these basics preserves inhibitor life, prevents deposit formation, and ensures stable operating temperatures, especially under load or in extreme climates.

Where to Buy and What It Costs

Genuine Honda Type 2 is available at Honda dealers and through reputable online retailers. As of 2025, expect roughly $18–$30 per gallon for the pre-mixed OEM fluid, depending on region. Quality aftermarket Honda-compatible Asian-vehicle blue coolants typically run about $14–$25 per gallon. Verify you are buying a pre-diluted 50/50 formula unless you specifically want concentrate and will mix with distilled water.

Frequently Asked Clarifications

Is Honda blue coolant the same as Toyota pink?

No. They use different additive packages and are not intended to be mixed. Use the coolant specified for your brand, or a product that explicitly meets both manufacturers’ requirements if applicable.

Can I use a “universal” coolant?

Only if it explicitly states Honda/Acura compatibility and matches the phosphate-OAT chemistry. If the label doesn’t clearly say this, don’t use it.

What if my older Odyssey originally had green coolant?

You can switch to Honda Type 2 after a thorough flush to remove the old silicated coolant. Mixing is not recommended.

What protection does a 50/50 mix provide?

A 50/50 ethylene glycol/water mix typically protects down to about -34°F (-37°C) and raises the boiling point when used with a proper pressure cap. Do not exceed about 70% antifreeze; too much reduces heat transfer and can raise operating temperatures.

Summary

Use Genuine Honda Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (blue, pre-mixed 50/50) in a Honda Odyssey. If OEM isn’t available, choose a reputable, Honda/Acura-compatible Asian-vehicle P-OAT coolant, also pre-mixed 50/50. Avoid mixing with non-compatible coolants, follow the manufacturer’s bleeding procedure after service, and confirm maintenance intervals and capacities in your specific model year’s manual.

What type of coolant does a Honda Odyssey take?

The correct coolant for a Honda Odyssey is Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2, which is a pre-mixed, blue-colored fluid formulated with silicate-free Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT). A non-silicate, major-brand Asian vehicle coolant can be used as a temporary replacement if the genuine Honda product is unavailable.
 
Key Characteristics of Honda Type 2 Coolant

  • Color: Blue 
  • Formulation: Silicate-free, long-life, phosphate Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) 
  • Readiness: Pre-mixed 50/50 with water, ready to use 
  • Purpose: Protects against rust and corrosion for all cooling system metals and prevents freezing and boil-overs 

Why Use Honda Type 2 or Equivalent?

  • OEM Compatibility: Honda Type 2 is specifically designed to meet the requirements for Honda vehicles. 
  • Protection: The silicate-free, long-life formula provides superior protection from rust, corrosion, and scaling compared to older coolants. 
  • Longevity: This type of coolant is designed for extended service life, lasting up to five years or 60,000 miles. 

Important Considerations

  • Engine Cooling: Always allow the engine to cool down completely before checking the coolant level to prevent serious burns. 
  • Never Mix Types: Do not mix different types of coolants. 
  • Emergency Replacement: If you need to add coolant in an emergency and can’t find the genuine Honda product, use a major brand’s non-silicate coolant. 

What type of coolant for 2007 Honda Odyssey?

For your 2007 Honda Odyssey, you need a blue, silicate-free Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT), phosphate-enhanced antifreeze specifically designed for Asian vehicles, such as Honda Type 2. Brands like ZEREX Asian Vehicle Blue, Pentofrost A3, or a suitable equivalent with these specifications can be used. Do not mix with other coolant types, especially silicate-based ones, as this can lead to system damage.
 
What to Look For 

  • Color: Blue.
  • Type: Silicate-free HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) with phosphate additives.
  • Vehicle Compatibility: Formulated for Asian vehicles, like Honda.

Recommended Products (Examples)

  • Genuine Honda Long Life Antifreeze (Type 2) : This is the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) fluid. 
  • ZEREX Asian Vehicle Blue: This product is specifically formulated for Asian vehicles and meets the requirements for a blue, silicate-free, HOAT coolant. 
  • Pentofrost A3: This is a phosphated OAT/HOAT coolant suitable for all Asian vehicles that require a blue, silicate-free coolant. 

Important Reminders

  • Never Mix Coolants: Mixing different types of coolant, especially with silicated coolants, can cause a gel-like substance to form, which can clog your radiator. 
  • Use Prediluted or Mix Properly: You can purchase a 50/50 pre-mixed coolant or a concentrate. If using a concentrate, always mix it with demineralized water in a 50/50 ratio to achieve the correct concentration for protection. 
  • Consult a Specialist: If you are unsure about the correct type or how to replace the coolant, consult a Honda specialist to ensure you use the right product and procedure. 

What type of coolant does a 2016 Honda Odyssey take?

Prestone Original Equipment (OE) Asian blue 50/50 Antifreeze/Coolant.

Does Honda use a special coolant?

Always use Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water. If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not available, you may use another major-brand non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement.

T P Auto Repair

Serving San Diego since 1984, T P Auto Repair is an ASE-certified NAPA AutoCare Center and Star Smog Check Station. Known for honest service and quality repairs, we help drivers with everything from routine maintenance to advanced diagnostics.

Leave a Comment