The 2013 Honda Fit uses Honda Genuine Long-Life Coolant Type 2 (blue HOAT), typically sold as a pre-diluted 50/50 mix with distilled water.
For readers, this article explains what Type 2 coolant is, why Honda uses it, how to source the right product, and how to replace or top off the coolant safely.
Understanding Honda Type 2 coolant
Honda’s Type 2 coolant is a HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) formulation designed for modern Honda engines. It is ethylene glycol-based and typically colored blue. It provides protective inhibitors to prevent corrosion in the cooling system and is intended to be used either as Honda’s recommended product or as an equivalent aftermarket HOAT coolant that explicitly states compatibility with Honda engines. Do not mix with Dex-Cool or other non-Honda coolants, as improper mixing can lead to deposits and cooling-system issues.
Sourcing and using the right coolant
Below is a quick guide to the coolant options you’ll commonly see for the 2013 Fit and how to use them correctly.
- Honda Genuine Long-Life Coolant Type 2 (Blue), ready-to-use pre-diluted 50/50 mix.
- Other HOAT coolants labeled Type 2 or explicitly listed as compatible with Honda engines, ethylene glycol-based and blue in color.
- Avoid Dex-Cool (GM), non-Honda conventional silicate-based coolants, or any product not labeled as Type 2/HOAT compatible with Honda engines.
Using the correct coolant helps ensure the cooling system’s longevity and reduces the risk of deposits or scale forming in passages and the radiator.
How to replace or top off the coolant
Follow these general steps if you’re replacing the coolant or performing a top-off. Always refer to the owner’s manual for exact specifications and procedures, and work only when the engine is cool.
- Park the car on a level surface and allow the engine to cool completely. Place a drain pan under the radiator drain plug.
- Drain the old coolant from the radiator and engine block, then flush if you’re performing a full replacement. Dispose of used coolant at an appropriate recycling facility.
- Confirm the system is clean, then fill with Honda Type 2 coolant or an equivalent HOAT coolant labeled compatible with Honda engines, to the cold fill line on the reservoir.
- Start the engine and run to operating temperature with the radiator cap off to vent air, then top off as needed to the proper level. Recheck after the engine cools.
Always mix coolant with the correct ratio as specified (usually 50/50 with distilled water for ready-to-use products) and never mix different coolant types in the same system. If in doubt, consult a professional technician or your local Honda dealer.
Color cues and compatibility
Honda Type 2 coolant is typically blue. If the system currently has a different color coolant, do not assume it’s compatible—confirm the exact formulation before adding. When in doubt, a complete flush and replacement with Type 2 HOAT coolant is the safest path to maintain optimal cooling performance.
Summary
For a 2013 Honda Fit, use Honda Genuine Long-Life Coolant Type 2 (Blue HOAT), usually available as a pre-diluted 50/50 mix. Use only Type 2 or a compatible HOAT coolant labeled for Honda engines, and avoid Dex-Cool or non-Honda formulations. Follow the owner’s manual for specific replacement intervals and procedures, and dispose of old coolant responsibly. Proper selection and maintenance of the coolant help protect the engine and cooling system over time.