Parts for your 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer-Coolant

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer coolant — what it does and how to look after it

Coolant is absolutely relevant and used on the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer. Technical sources including the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Owner’s Manual (Cooling System section) and Mitsubishi Motors Service Manual (Group 14: Engine Cooling) specify a pressurised, liquid-cooled system using ethylene glycol–based long-life coolant (Mitsubishi Genuine Super Long Life Coolant).

For this Lancer, coolant circulates through the engine, radiator and heater core to carry heat away, keeping operating temperatures stable in Aussie and Kiwi conditions—from cold mornings to hot summer traffic. It also raises the boiling point, lowers the freezing point, protects against internal corrosion and helps lubricate the water pump. In short, it keeps the 4-cylinder engines—whether 1.8, 2.0, 2.4 or turbo variants—happy, efficient and reliable.

Servicing-wise, the vehicle is designed for long-life coolant. Check the owner’s book for your exact schedule, many AU/NZ vehicles factory-filled with Mitsubishi Genuine Super Long Life Coolant are due around 10 years/160,000 km for the first change, then roughly every 5 years/100,000 km thereafter. If history’s unknown, a proactive change is smart. Always use the specified blue Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (premix) or an equivalent silicate-free, phosphate OAT formulation meeting the same standard. Mixing coolant chemistries (e.g., green or universal) can reduce protection.

When topping up, use the same coolant type—ideally premixed—or blend concentrate 50/50 with demineralised water. The system holds roughly six to seven litres depending on engine and transmission, so buy enough for a full flush. Never open the radiator cap hot, wait for the engine to cool.

• Service tips: Inspect coolant level and colour at each service, blue turning murky or brown points to contamination. Replace the radiator cap if its seal is cracked. After a drain and fill, bleed air by running the engine at fast idle with the heater on HOT until the fans cycle and bubbles stop.
• Watch for: Temperature gauge creeping up, heater not blowing warm, a sweet smell, coloured drips under the front, or low reservoir level. Address leaks early to avoid head gasket or water pump damage.
• Dispose responsibly: Used coolant is toxic—send it to a recycling facility.

Technical references: Mitsubishi Lancer (CJ) Owner’s Manual, Mitsubishi Motors Service Manual (Engine Cooling), and Mitsubishi Genuine Super Long Life Coolant product guidance for AU/NZ markets.

What coolant type should a 2013 Lancer use?

Mitsubishi Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (blue), pre-mixed ethylene glycol with phosphate OAT inhibitors, is the recommended fill. An equivalent silicate-free, borate-free P-OAT that meets the same spec is acceptable. Avoid mixing brands or colours—stick with one chemistry.

How often should the coolant be changed?

Refer to the service schedule in the owner’s manual for the exact interval. Many AU/NZ vehicles with factory SLLC are due at around 10 years/160,000 km initially, then every 5 years/100,000 km. Severe use, prior mixing of coolants, or any contamination can justify earlier replacement.

How can someone tell if their Lancer’s coolant needs attention?

Signs include the temperature gauge running hotter than normal, the heater blowing cool air at idle, a sweet smell, visible leaks, or coolant that looks rusty, milky or sludgy in the reservoir. Any of these warrant an inspection, pressure test and likely a flush with the correct coolant.