Zerex( valvoline) vs Toyota Red antifreeze

Hello,
Im a new member, very glad to join the Tacoma community. Recently bought a 2003 prerunner with 184,000 miles. I have serviced the rear differential oil with STP 80w-90.The tranny with valvoline Maxlife. Greased the U-joints. Cleaned the power steering reservoir and put new fluid(maxlife also).Have I done wrong using non-toyota ATF?

I realize that Toyota OEM fluids are better but has anyone used Zerex that can recommend it?, I want this truck to last me at least until 300K, any advice will be appreciated.

Thank you

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome aboard new member
Follow manufacturer recommendations.

 

Fantastic looking truck! Welcome to Tacoma World!

Of course, if you can get the OEM Toyota fluids I would say go for that. Dollar for dollar you're not looking at much price difference. If you buy it online that is, the dealership will shaft you.

However,
Lots of people run Non-Toyota fluids, Issues cropping up due to different brands are far and few between. Of course there are exceptions and someone will probably chime in here to say that. Each vehicle is going to be different, a list of the variables between vehicles that were fine without OEM fluid and those that were not would be insane to compile.

If you want to keep it all Valvoline (I understand that urge) I do not see any problems with using Zerex, for what my opinion is worth that is. I have not heard of crazy issues because of it. Just do a solid, full system flush beforehand. Get enough distilled water (more than you think you'll need) to run through the system until it comes out crystal clear.
You'll probably hear about how your service interval will be shorter than if you had just gone OEM or something to that effect. Even if it only lasts three years instead of five, at an estimated 100$ a flush, that's only 133$ more over a ten year period. Everybody is different on what they prefer.

Good luck!

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome! I think the main issue is mixing coolant types. I also will only use Toyota coolant in all of my Toyotas. YMMV