2020 Ford Explorer Coolant Capacity & Type Guide

The 2020 Ford Explorer holds between 11.1 and 13.5 quarts of engine coolant, depending on your specific engine option and whether the vehicle is equipped with a rear auxiliary heater. Navigating modern cooling systems requires precision, as using the wrong fluid can lead to catastrophic engine damage. As an ASE-certified master technician, I have put together this comprehensive guide to help you maintain your Explorer's cooling system correctly.

Quick answer

If you need the essential details to pick up the right fluid for your 2020 Ford Explorer, here is what you need to know:

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 11.1 to 13.5 quarts (10.5 to 12.8 liters), depending on the engine and rear climate control options.
• OEM Coolant Spec: Motorcraft Yellow Antifreeze/Coolant. This is a Phosphated Organic Acid Technology (P-OAT) formula meeting Ford specification WSS-M97B57-A1 (concentrate) or WSS-M97B57-A2 (pre-diluted).
• Mix Ratio: A 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water is standard for most climates, offering protection down to -34°F (-36°C).

Capacity by engine option

Because the 2020 Ford Explorer comes with several different powertrains and climate configurations, the total amount of coolant needed will vary. Keep in mind that hybrid models feature a secondary cooling loop for the inverter system.

Note: Always buy a little more than the total capacity to account for bleeding the system and future top-offs.

Flush interval

Modern P-OAT coolants are long-lasting, but they are not lifetime fluids.

• Normal Duty: Ford recommends the initial coolant replacement at 100,000 miles or 6 years, whichever comes first. After the initial flush, the interval drops to every 50,000 miles or 3 years.
• Severe Duty: If you frequently tow heavy loads, idle extensively, or drive in extreme heat or dusty conditions, I highly recommend performing the initial flush at 60,000 miles. Fresh coolant replenishes the anti-corrosion additives that protect your aluminum engine block and heater core.

How to refill & bleed

The 2020 Ford Explorer's cooling system can be tricky to bleed manually because of the complex routing of heater hoses, especially on models with rear auxiliary climate control.

1. Drain the System: With the engine cold, locate the radiator petcock (drain valve) on the bottom corner of the radiator. Drain the old fluid into an appropriate catch pan.
2. Vacuum Fill (Recommended): The absolute best way to refill modern EcoBoost engines is by using an airlift/vacuum coolant refill tool. This pulls the system into a deep vacuum, checking for leaks, and then draws the 50/50 mix in without introducing any air pockets.
3. Manual Fill & Bleed (Alternative): If you don't have a vacuum tool, attach a spill-free funnel to the coolant reservoir. Slowly pour the 50/50 Motorcraft Yellow mixture in until it reaches the MAX line.
4. Run the Engine: Start the vehicle and turn the front and rear cabin heaters to their maximum heat setting with the fan on low.
5. Burp the System: Let the engine idle until it reaches operating temperature and the thermostat opens. Keep the funnel attached and maintain the fluid level as air bubbles escape. Rev the engine slightly to 2,000 RPM a few times to push out stubborn air pockets.
6. Final Check: Once heat blows hot from all vents and no more bubbles appear, turn off the engine, let it cool, and top off the reservoir to the MAX mark.

Common cooling system issues

For the 2020 generation of the Explorer, there are a few cooling system quirks to watch out for:

• Water Pump Leaks: While the 3.0L V6 no longer uses the infamous internal chain-driven water pump found in older Ford 3.5L engines, the external water pumps can still develop weep-hole leaks around 80,000 to 100,000 miles.
• Thermostat Housing Cracks: The plastic thermostat housings can become brittle over time due to heat cycles, leading to hairline cracks and slow coolant loss.
• Air Pockets (Overheating): The EcoBoost engines are notoriously difficult to bleed manually. If you hear a "sloshing" waterfall sound behind your dashboard upon acceleration, there is air trapped in your heater core.

If you suspect a leak, notice rising temperature gauges, or simply need a professional flush, don't leave it to chance. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.