2016 Ford Escape Fluid Type Specs

As an ASE-Certified Master Technician, I'm here to guide you through the complete fluid specifications for your 2016 Ford Escape. Adhering to these factory recommendations is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's performance, longevity, and warranty.

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	SAE 5W-20, API SN or hotter, Ford WSS-M2C945-A	4.5 – 5.7 quarts (verify in owner's manual for specific engine)
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft Orange Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant, Ford WSS-M97B44-D	7.9 – 9.0 quarts (verify in owner's manual for specific engine)
Transmission Fluid	MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid	9.0 – 9.7 quarts (initial fill, dry fill will be higher)
Transfer Case (PTU)	Motorcraft XO-75W90-QGT (SAE 75W-90 FTM-LV)	0.5-0.6 quarts
Rear Differential	Motorcraft SAE 75W-85 Premium Hypoid Gear Oil XY-75W85-QL (Ford WSL-M2C192-A) or Motorcraft SAE 80W-90 Premium Rear Axle Lubricant XY-80W90-QL (Ford WSP-M2C197-A) (verify in owner's manual)	~1.1 quarts (verify in owner's manual)
Brake Fluid	Motorcraft High Performance DOT 3 LV Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid, Ford WSS-M6C65-A2	As needed
Power Steering Fluid	Electric Power-Assist Steering (EPAS) - None required	N/A
Washer Fluid	Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate ZC-3-A	1 Gallon
DEF (if diesel)	N/A (Gasoline engine)	N/A

Engine Oil

For your 2016 Ford Escape, the factory recommends using SAE 5W-20 engine oil that meets or exceeds the API SN (or hotter, e.g., SP) service classification and the Ford specification WSS-M2C945-A. The capacity can range from approximately 4.5 to 5.7 quarts depending on your specific engine (1.6L EcoBoost, 2.0L EcoBoost, or 2.5L Duratec). Always verify the exact capacity in your owner's manual. Ford recommends an oil change interval of 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every 6-12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. For severe duty, this interval should be shortened. Using an incorrect oil weight or specification can lead to premature engine wear, reduced fuel economy, and potential engine damage.

Engine Coolant

The 2016 Ford Escape utilizes Motorcraft Orange Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant, which is an Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant. It meets Ford specification WSS-M97B44-D. This coolant is typically orange in color. The cooling system capacity typically ranges from 7.9 to 9.0 quarts. It is crucial to use only this specified type of coolant. Mixing different types of coolants, especially OAT with other technologies like HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), can lead to chemical reactions, gelling, reduced corrosion protection, and severe damage to your cooling system components. The recommended service interval for the initial coolant fill is typically 10 years or 100,000 miles, then every 5 years or 50,000 miles thereafter.

Transmission Fluid

Your 2016 Ford Escape's automatic transmission requires MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid. This is a low-viscosity, fully synthetic fluid specifically engineered for Ford transmissions that call for it. Do not use MERCON V or any other generic "universal" automatic transmission fluid, as this can cause shifting issues, premature wear, and transmission damage. The initial fill capacity for a drain and refill is typically around 9.0 to 9.7 quarts, though a complete dry fill will be higher. Ford generally considers the transmission fluid "lifetime" fill; however, for optimal performance and longevity, especially with heavy towing or frequent stop-and-go driving, an inspection and potential fluid exchange every 60,000 to 100,000 miles is highly recommended.

Transfer Case (Power Transfer Unit - PTU)

For 4WD/AWD 2016 Ford Escape models, the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) requires Motorcraft SAE 75W-90 FTM-LV Gear Oil, which is often identified by part number XO-75W90-QGT. The capacity is relatively small, typically around 0.5 to 0.6 quarts. Due to the PTU's location and operating conditions, this fluid can experience significant heat and stress. Many technicians recommend more frequent inspection and replacement intervals than Ford's "lifetime" specification, especially if you engage in demanding driving conditions. Some independent shops suggest replacement every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

Rear Differential

If your 2016 Ford Escape is equipped with AWD, it will have a rear differential. There are two potential specifications depending on your exact build, so always verify in your owner's manual or OEM service information: Motorcraft SAE 75W-85 Premium Hypoid Gear Oil (part number XY-75W85-QL, meets Ford specification WSL-M2C192-A) or Motorcraft SAE 80W-90 Premium Rear Axle Lubricant (part number XY-80W90-QL, meets Ford specification WSP-M2C197-A). The capacity is approximately 1.1 quarts. Neither of these requires a separate friction modifier for Limited-Slip Differentials, as the Escape's rear differential is not a traditional LSD. As with the PTU, while Ford may identify this as a "lifetime" fluid, proactive maintenance with fluid changes every 60,000 to 100,000 miles can significantly extend its lifespan.

Brake Fluid

Your 2016 Ford Escape uses Motorcraft High Performance DOT 3 LV Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid, which meets Ford specification WSS-M6C65-A2. It is crucial to use only DOT 3 fluid and never mix it with DOT 4, DOT 5, or DOT 5.1 fluids, as this can lead to seal degradation and brake system failure. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to corrosion within the brake system. Ford recommends inspecting the brake fluid level at every service and replacing it every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first, to prevent contamination and maintain optimal braking performance.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2016 Ford Escape is equipped with an Electric Power-Assist Steering (EPAS) system. This means there is no hydraulic power steering pump or fluid reservoir to worry about. The system is electronically controlled, eliminating the need for traditional power steering fluid maintenance.

Washer Fluid

For your windshield washer system, it is recommended to use Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate (part number ZC-3-A) diluted with water, or a pre-mixed, quality automotive windshield washer fluid. The washer fluid reservoir typically holds 1 gallon. Using plain water in freezing temperatures can cause the reservoir, pump, or lines to crack and burst.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

The 2016 Ford Escape is not available with a diesel engine in the North American market, therefore, it does not require Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).

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