2019 Ford Explorer Complete Fluid Specifications Guide

As an ASE-certified master technician, I see countless vehicles roll into the shop with premature wear simply because the wrong fluids were used or maintenance intervals were ignored. The 2019 Ford Explorer is a robust and popular family hauler, but its longevity relies heavily on using the exact factory-specified fluids. From the high-heat environment of the EcoBoost turbochargers to the notoriously stressed AWD Power Transfer Unit (PTU), guessing on fluids is a recipe for expensive repairs.

Below is your complete, definitive guide to the 2019 Ford Explorer fluid specifications, straight from OEM service data.

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil (2.3L EcoBoost)	5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (WSS-M2C946-B1 / API SN+)	5.7 qts (with filter)
Engine Oil (3.5L V6 NA)	5W-20 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (WSS-M2C945-B1 / API SN+)	6.0 qts (with filter)
Engine Oil (3.5L EcoBoost)	5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (WSS-M2C946-B1 / API SN+)	6.0 qts (with filter)
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft Orange OAT (WSS-M97B44-D2) or Yellow (WSS-M97B57-A1)	10.9 – 12.1 qts (varies by engine/towing pkg)
Transmission Fluid	Motorcraft MERCON LV (WSS-M2C938-A)	11.6 qts (total dry fill)
PTU / Transfer Case (AWD)	75W-140 Synthetic Gear Oil (WSL-M2C192-A)	~0.37 – 0.5 qts
Rear Differential (AWD)	80W-90 Premium Rear Axle Lubricant (WSP-M2C197-A)	~1.25 qts
Brake Fluid	Motorcraft DOT 4 LV High Performance (WSS-M6C65-A2)	Fill to MAX line
Power Steering	N/A (Electric Power Assist Steering - EPAS)	N/A
Washer Fluid	Standard Premium Washer Fluid (WSS-M14P19-A)	Fill to reservoir neck
DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid)	N/A (No diesel option in the US 2019 Explorer)	N/A

Note: Capacities are approximate. Always verify in your owner's manual or OEM service info, and fill to the appropriate dipstick or check-plug level.

Engine Oil

The 2019 Ford Explorer features three engine options, and oil viscosity depends heavily on whether you have an EcoBoost engine or the naturally aspirated (NA) V6.

• 2.3L & 3.5L EcoBoost: Require 5W-30 (Ford Spec WSS-M2C946-B1). The turbochargers generate immense heat, so a high-quality full synthetic is highly recommended to prevent oil coking in the turbo bearings.
• 3.5L NA V6: Requires 5W-20 (Ford Spec WSS-M2C945-B1).

Intervals & Pitfalls: Ford's Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor will tell you when to change the oil, but as a master tech, I strongly advise against exceeding 5,000 miles for the EcoBoost engines. Ensure the oil meets API SN Plus or API SP standards to prevent Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI), a common killer of modern turbocharged engines.

Engine Coolant

The factory-fill for the 2019 Explorer was Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze/Coolant (WSS-M97B44-D2), which is an Organic Acid Technology (OAT). However, Ford has superseded Orange with Motorcraft Yellow (WSS-M97B57-A1) P-OAT coolant. They are fully backward compatible.

Intervals & Pitfalls: Never mix OAT/P-OAT coolants with older HOAT or traditional green IAT coolants, and avoid "universal" coolants found at auto parts stores. Mixing incompatible coolants can cause the additives to fall out of suspension, turning the coolant into a highly acidic, abrasive sludge that destroys water pumps and heater cores. Change the factory coolant at 100,000 miles, and every 50,000 miles thereafter.

Transmission Fluid

All 2019 Explorers use a 6-speed automatic transmission (either the 6F35 or the heavier-duty 6F55). Both require Motorcraft MERCON LV (WSS-M2C938-A).

Intervals & Pitfalls: Never use universal ATF, MERCON V, or DEXRON III. The 6F-series transmissions are incredibly sensitive to fluid friction modifiers. Using a multi-vehicle fluid can lead to harsh shifting, torque converter shudder, and eventual failure. While Ford states the fluid is good for 150,000 miles under normal conditions, real-world shop experience dictates a drain-and-fill every 30,000 to 60,000 miles to keep the valve body and solenoids functioning perfectly.

PTU (Power Transfer Unit) / Transfer Case

If you have an AWD 2019 Explorer, you have a Power Transfer Unit (PTU). The factory spec is Motorcraft 75W-140 Synthetic Gear Oil (WSL-M2C192-A).

Intervals & Pitfalls: This is the single most critical maintenance item on an AWD Explorer. Ford historically claimed the PTU fluid was "lifetime," but its location directly next to the catalytic converter exposes it to extreme heat. The 0.5-quart capacity breaks down rapidly, turning into a thick, tar-like sludge and causing catastrophic PTU failure. I highly recommend having the fluid extracted and refilled every 30,000 miles.

Rear Differential

The rear differential on AWD models utilizes Motorcraft 80W-90 Premium Rear Axle Lubricant (WSP-M2C197-A).

Intervals & Pitfalls: Unlike traditional truck differentials, the Explorer's rear diff is fairly light-duty and operates in a much cooler environment than the PTU. Fluid changes every 60,000 to 100,000 miles are generally sufficient. Ensure the vent tube is clear of debris, as a clogged breather will blow out the axle seals.

Brake Fluid

Ford specifies DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity) High Performance brake fluid (WSS-M6C65-A2).

Intervals & Pitfalls: The "LV" is critical here. The 2019 Explorer's ABS and AdvanceTrac electronic stability control systems pulse the brakes dozens of times per second during an event. Standard DOT 3 or traditional DOT 4 is too thick, especially in cold weather, and can delay the ABS response time. Brake fluid is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture), so flush the system every 2 to 3 years to prevent internal corrosion and soft pedal feel.

Power Steering Fluid

You won't find a power steering reservoir under the hood of a 2019 Ford Explorer. It utilizes Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), which relies on an electric motor rather than a hydraulic pump. There is no fluid to check or change.

Windshield Washer Fluid

Use any high-quality washer fluid that meets Ford spec WSS-M14P19-A. If you live in a region that experiences freezing temperatures, ensure you swap out summer bug-wash for a winter-grade fluid rated for sub-zero temperatures to prevent the reservoir and lines from cracking.

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Vehicle maintenance doesn't have to be a guessing game, but it does require precision. Using the right fluids is the cheapest insurance policy you can buy for your vehicle.

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