2016 Ford Explorer Fluid Type Specifications
AI-generated reference. Always verify torque values, fluid capacities, intervals, and procedures against the manufacturer's service manual or OEM repair information before performing work. Repairius is not liable for damage from acting on this content without verification.
Working on this 2016 Ford Explorer? Run just this one job through Repairius.
No big switch. Write the estimate, text it for approval, and get paid on your phone. Keep everything else the way it is.
14-day free trial · credit card required · cancel anytime
Quick Reference
| Fluid | Type/Spec | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil | SAE 5W-20 (2.3L/3.5L NA), SAE 5W-30 (3.5L EcoBoost) Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-20), Ford WSS-M2C946-A (5W-30), API SN or higher | 5.7 quarts (2.3L), 6.0 quarts (3.5L NA), 6.0 quarts (3.5L EcoBoost) |
| Engine Coolant | Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze/Coolant (Ford WSS-M97B44-D) | 13.9 - 14.5 quarts (verify in owner's manual based on engine) |
| Transmission Fluid | MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid | 10.0 quarts (initial fill/drain & fill), 13.1 quarts (total fill) |
| Transfer Case | MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid | ~1.2 pints |
| Front Differential | SAE 75W-90 High Performance Gear Oil (Ford XY-75W90-QL) | ~1.4 pints |
| Rear Differential | SAE 75W-85 Premium Hypoid Gear Lubricant (Ford XY-75W85-QL) | ~2.5 - 2.8 pints (verify in owner's manual based on axle) |
| Brake Fluid | Motorcraft DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) MVSS-116 | As needed |
| Power Steering | Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) - No fluid needed | N/A |
| Washer Fluid | Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate (ZC-32-A) or equivalent | ~1 gallon |
Engine Oil
For the 2016 Ford Explorer, engine oil specifications vary based on the engine installed.
- 2.3L EcoBoost and 3.5L Naturally Aspirated Engines: Require SAE 5W-20 engine oil meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C945-A. It is also recommended to use oil that meets API Service Classification SN or higher (e.g., SP).
- 3.5L EcoBoost Engine: Requires SAE 5W-30 engine oil meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C946-A. Similarly, API SN or higher (e.g., SP) is recommended.
Capacity:
- 2.3L EcoBoost: 5.7 quarts
- 3.5L Naturally Aspirated: 6.0 quarts
- 3.5L EcoBoost: 6.0 quarts
Intervals and Pitfalls: Ford recommends oil changes every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. However, severe driving conditions (towing, extreme temperatures, dusty environments, extensive idling) may necessitate more frequent changes. Always verify the exact interval in your owner's manual. Using the incorrect oil viscosity or an oil that does not meet Ford's WSS-M2C9xx-A specifications can lead to premature engine wear, reduced fuel economy, and potential warranty voiding. Ensure the oil carries the API
More specs for the 2016 Ford Explorer
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Towing Capacity & Payload
Max tow, payload, GVWR/GCWR, hitch class by trim.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
Trans gear ratios, axle ratios, RPO codes, tow vs MPG impact.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2016 Ford Explorer Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
Browse by make
Running an auto or diesel repair shop?
Compare Repairius to the shop software you're paying for
$99.99/month (first location included), unlimited users, 14-day free trial.