Looking at a 5th Gen - coolant concern

[MyFirstRunner]

Moving up from a 3rd to 5th Gen and looked at a few yesterday. Concerned that a 2010 I looked at with less than 90k miles had low coolant even after it was up to temp and the coolant was green (level below L before and after test drive). I’m sure the factory coolant is still red for these and should be original until 100k unless there was an issue. Paranoid? Thanks!

I should add that I mentioned my concern to the dealer and he stated that they did a blah-blah point inspection and all looked good but he’d have them check it again. Non-Toyota dealer.

 

[wfo9]

If it's not red.. I would avoid it for sure. The level is no issue, but the color is very concerning.

I actually run green in my old Toyota and it is fine as long as you get it completely flushed first, but I would not trust it on any of the newer ones.

It's a red flag to me.

 

[jrandom]

^Agreed

The sceptik in me would start checking for body/frame damage to see if it’s been wrecked or had some serious engine damage. IIRC coolant flush is’nt scheduled until 100k.

Of course the previous owner could have been duped at the quickly lube with an coolant flush up sell.

 

[enapa]

I could be wrong, but I don't think that head gaskets are an issue on the 5th gen. That being said I myself wouldn't purchase this vehicle. I am too paranoid I guess. LOL.

 

[BTO]

+1. Pass on this one. The clues are too suspicious to take a chance. If these guys want to sell a patched up truck, you'd think they could at least make it look correct.

 

[MyFirstRunner]

Thanks everyone, that’s why I love this forum, that’s exactly the gut feeling I got while looking at it. I appreciate the confirmation. Even 2010’s are hard to come by and usually sell fast so this obvious red flag had me searching for someone to tell me it was “ok” even though I knew better. Sold my 3rd Gen today, itching for a new one.