2018 Ford Escape Fluid Type Specs

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	SAE 5W-20 (2.5L & 1.5L EcoBoost), SAE 5W-30 (2.0L EcoBoost)	5.7 quarts (2.5L & 1.5L EcoBoost), 5.7 quarts (2.0L EcoBoost)
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft Yellow Antifreeze/Coolant (Ford WSS-M97B57-A2)	Approximately 7.6-8.0 quarts (varies by engine and cooling system)
Transmission Fluid	MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid	Approximately 9.0-9.6 quarts (drain & fill is less)
Transfer Case Fluid (AWD)	Motorcraft Dual Pump Haldex Coupling Fluid (Ford WSS-M2C949-A)	Approximately 1.2 pints
Front Differential Fluid (FWD)	Integrated with transmission fluid (MERCON LV)	N/A (shares transmission fluid)
Rear Differential Fluid (AWD)	SAE 75W-90 High Performance Rear Axle Lubricant (Ford WSS-M2C942-A)	Approximately 1.1 pints
Brake Fluid	Motorcraft DOT 3 Brake Fluid (Ford WSS-M6C65-A2)	As needed during service
Power Steering Fluid	Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS) - No serviceable fluid	N/A
Washer Fluid	Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate (Ford WSS-M14P19-A) or equivalent	Approximately 1.0-1.2 gallons (check reservoir)

Engine Oil

The 2018 Ford Escape has specific engine oil requirements depending on the engine size. For the 2.5L and 1.5L EcoBoost engines, the factory-recommended engine oil is SAE 5W-20 meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C945-B1 or an equivalent API SN PLUS or later specification. For the 2.0L EcoBoost engine, the factory-recommended engine oil is SAE 5W-30 meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C946-B1 or an equivalent API SN PLUS or later specification. Ford also recommends using an oil that carries the API 'donut' symbol and adheres to the ILSAC GF-5 or later standard for fuel economy and engine protection.

Capacity: Both the 2.5L/1.5L EcoBoost (5.7 quarts) and 2.0L EcoBoost (5.7 quarts) engines have relatively similar oil capacities.

Intervals and Pitfalls: 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. However, for vehicles frequently operating in severe conditions such as heavy towing, extreme temperatures, or prolonged idling, a shorter interval of 5,000 miles or 6 months is advisable. Always use the specified weight and synthetic blend or full synthetic oil that meets or exceeds Ford's specifications to ensure proper lubrication and extend engine life. Using incorrect oil can lead to premature wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine damage.

Engine Coolant

The 2018 Ford Escape uses Motorcraft Yellow Antifreeze/Coolant, which is an Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant. This coolant meets Ford specification WSS-M97B57-A2. It is typically yellow/gold in color.

Capacity: The cooling system capacity for the 2018 Ford Escape generally ranges from 7.6 to 8.0 quarts, depending on the engine and specific cooling system configuration. Always refer to your owner's manual for the precise capacity for your vehicle.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Ford recommends changing the engine coolant every 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first, for the initial fill. Subsequent changes may vary. It is crucial to use only the specified Motorcraft Yellow Antifreeze/Coolant or an equivalent that explicitly meets Ford WSS-M97B57-A2. Mixing different types of coolants, especially OAT with other technologies like HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or IAT (Inorganic Acid Technology), can lead to chemical incompatibilities, additive fallout, gel formation, and severe damage to the cooling system components and water pump. Always perform a thorough flush if switching coolant types (though not recommended).

Transmission Fluid

The 2018 Ford Escape utilizes MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid. This low-viscosity fluid is specifically formulated for Ford transmissions requiring this specification. Never use "universal" ATF or fluids labeled as suitable for multiple specifications without explicit MERCON LV approval.

Capacity: A complete drain and fill typically requires approximately 9.0 to 9.6 quarts of MERCON LV. However, a pan drop and filter change will only replace a portion of the fluid, usually around 4-6 quarts. A transmission flush machine is often required to achieve a nearly complete fluid exchange.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Ford generally considers the transmission fluid to be "filled for life" under normal driving conditions for many owners. However, for optimal longevity and performance, especially in severe duty applications (towing, frequent stop-and-go, hot climates), it is highly recommended to consider a transmission fluid and filter service every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Always use genuine MERCON LV fluid to prevent transmission damage. Incorrect fluid can lead to harsh shifts, slippage, overheating, and premature transmission failure. Always check the fluid level according to the correct procedure outlined in your owner's manual, usually with the engine warm and running.

Transfer Case Fluid (AWD Models Only)

For 2018 Ford Escape models equipped with All-Wheel Drive (AWD), the transfer case requires Motorcraft Dual Pump Haldex Coupling Fluid, which meets Ford specification WSS-M2C949-A.

Capacity: The transfer case typically holds approximately 1.2 pints of fluid.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Ford does not specify a routine maintenance interval for the transfer case fluid under normal driving conditions. However, many technicians and enthusiasts recommend inspecting and potentially changing the fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, especially if driving in demanding conditions. Using the correct Ford WSS-M2C949-A fluid is paramount for the proper operation and longevity of the Haldex coupling. Using incorrect fluid can lead to improper engagement, noise, and damage to the transfer case components.

Differential Fluid

Front Differential (FWD Models)

On Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) 2018 Ford Escape models, the front differential is integrated into the transaxle and shares fluid with the automatic transmission. Therefore, the fluid requirement is MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Capacity: N/A (shares transmission fluid).

Intervals and Pitfalls: Service is tied to transmission fluid service intervals.

Rear Differential (AWD Models)

For 2018 Ford Escape models with All-Wheel Drive (AWD), the rear differential requires SAE 75W-90 High-Performance Rear Axle Lubricant, which meets Ford specification WSS-M2C942-A. This specific fluid is often referred to as Motorcraft SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant.

Capacity: The rear differential holds approximately 1.1 pints of fluid.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Similar to the transfer case, a routine maintenance interval is not explicitly stated in the owner's manual for the rear differential under normal conditions. However, a service interval of 30,000 to 60,000 miles is often recommended, especially for vehicles driven in severe conditions (towing, off-road, frequent hills). Always use a gear oil that explicitly meets Ford WSS-M2C942-A. Some Ford rear differentials, though not typically the Escape, can have limited-slip differentials which require friction modifier additives; however, for the 2018 Escape AWD rear differential, the specified WSS-M2C942-A fluid is sufficient.

Brake Fluid

The 2018 Ford Escape uses Motorcraft DOT 3 Brake Fluid, which meets Ford specification WSS-M6C65-A2.

Capacity: As needed during service.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to corrosion in the brake system over time. Ford recommends inspecting the brake fluid level and condition annually. While not a strict replacement interval in all Ford manuals, many automotive experts recommend flushing and replacing brake fluid every 2 years or 30,000 miles to maintain optimal braking performance and prevent expensive repairs to brake components. Only use new, unopened DOT 3 brake fluid that meets or exceeds the Ford WSS-M6C65-A2 specification. Never mix DOT 3 and DOT 4 fluids with DOT 5 fluid, as DOT 5 is silicone-based and incompatible with the other glycol-based fluids. Using incorrect fluid can lead to brake system failure.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2018 Ford Escape is equipped with an Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS) system. This system is entirely electric and does not use traditional hydraulic power steering fluid. Therefore, there is no serviceable power steering fluid for this vehicle.

Capacity: N/A

Intervals and Pitfalls: N/A

Washer Fluid

The 2018 Ford Escape utilizes Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate or an equivalent fluid. Ford specification WSS-M14P19-A covers washer fluid.

Capacity: The washer fluid reservoir typically holds approximately 1.0 to 1.2 gallons.

Intervals and Pitfalls: This fluid should be topped off as needed. It is recommended to use a quality washer fluid, especially one that offers freeze protection in colder climates. Never use plain water in the windshield washer system, particularly in freezing temperatures, as it can freeze and damage the pump, lines, and reservoir. Some washer fluids also include bug remover or rain-repellent additives.

DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid)

The 2018 Ford Escape was not offered with a diesel engine in the North American market. Therefore, Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is not applicable to this vehicle.

Capacity: N/A

Intervals and Pitfalls: N/A

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