2020 Ford Explorer Fluid Type Specifications

As an ASE-certified master technician, I know that using the correct fluids is the most important thing you can do to ensure the longevity and reliability of your 2020 Ford Explorer. Modern vehicles are engineered to tight tolerances, and the specific formulations of factory-spec fluids are designed to protect intricate components, manage heat, and ensure smooth operation. Using a “universal” or “one-size-fits-all” product can lead to premature wear, poor performance, and even catastrophic failure.

This guide provides a comprehensive list of the factory-specified fluids for your 2020 Ford Explorer. Always verify capacities and specifications in your owner’s manual or with official OEM service information before performing any service.

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Specification	Capacity
Engine Oil (2.3L EcoBoost)	SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic, Ford WSS-M2C961-A1	6.2 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil (3.0L EcoBoost)	SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic, Ford WSS-M2C961-A1	6.5 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil (3.3L Hybrid)	SAE 0W-20 Full Synthetic, Ford WSS-M2C962-A1	5.7 quarts (with filter)
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft® Yellow Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT), Ford WSS-M97B57-A2	11.2 - 13.3 quarts
Transmission Fluid	Motorcraft® MERCON® ULV Automatic Transmission Fluid	12 quarts (approx. total fill)
Transfer Case Fluid (AWD)	Motorcraft® XL-12 Transfer Case Fluid	~1.5 pints
Front Differential Fluid (AWD)	Motorcraft® 75W-85 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant	~1.6 pints
Rear Differential Fluid	Motorcraft® 75W-85 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant	1.8 - 2.4 pints
Brake Fluid	Motorcraft® DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid	As required
Power Steering	N/A (Electric Power Assisted Steering)	N/A
Windshield Washer Fluid	Motorcraft® Premium Windshield Wash Concentrate	As required

Engine Oil

The 2020 Explorer uses different engine oil depending on the powerplant. Using the correct viscosity (e.g., 5W-30) and specification is critical for the health of your engine, especially for turbocharged EcoBoost models.

• 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: The required oil is SAE 5W-30 that meets Ford’s WSS-M2C961-A1 specification. A synthetic blend is the minimum requirement, but a full synthetic oil meeting this spec will provide superior protection against heat and turbocharger wear.
• 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (ST & Platinum): This high-output engine requires a full synthetic SAE 5W-30 oil that also meets Ford’s WSS-M2C961-A1 specification. Do not substitute with conventional or blend oils.
• 3.3L Hybrid V6: The hybrid model requires a lighter viscosity oil to maximize efficiency. Use SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil meeting the WSS-M2C962-A1 specification.

Notes: Always use a high-quality oil filter when changing your oil. The Ford specification is crucial as it contains specific additives to prevent low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) in EcoBoost engines. Change intervals are determined by the vehicle’s intelligent oil-life monitor, but a good rule of thumb is every 5,000-7,500 miles, especially under severe driving conditions.

Engine Coolant

Ford introduced a new coolant type for this generation of Explorer. Using the wrong coolant or mixing types can cause gelling, corrosion, and damage to the radiator, water pump, and other cooling system components.

• Type: Motorcraft® Yellow Antifreeze/Coolant
• Specification: Ford WSS-M97B57-A2
• Formula: Organic Acid Technology (OAT)

Notes: This yellow-colored coolant is NOT the same as older gold or green coolants. It is a Phosphate-based OAT (P-OAT). Never mix it with other coolant types. If the system is ever drained or flushed, it must be refilled with this specific coolant, diluted 50/50 with distilled water. The initial factory fill is designed to last for an extended period (up to 10 years / 200,000 miles), but it should be inspected regularly for level and condition.

Transmission Fluid

The 10-speed automatic transmission in the 2020 Explorer is a sophisticated unit that requires a very specific, low-viscosity fluid.

• Type: Motorcraft® MERCON® ULV (Ultra-Low Viscosity)
• Specification: Look for fluids explicitly marked as meeting MERCON® ULV specifications.

Notes: This is NOT the same as MERCON® V or MERCON® LV. Using the wrong fluid will cause severe shifting problems and can quickly destroy the transmission. There is no such thing as a "universal" ATF that is appropriate for this transmission. Fluid changes should be left to a professional, as it requires a special procedure to check the level and perform a full flush.

Drivetrain Fluids (AWD Models)

If your Explorer is equipped with All-Wheel Drive (AWD), the transfer case and front/rear differentials require regular fluid service.

• Transfer Case: Use Motorcraft® XL-12 Transfer Case Fluid. This is a specialty fluid and should not be substituted.
• Front & Rear Differentials: The specification for both the front and rear axle is Motorcraft® 75W-85 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant. The rear differential may be an open or limited-slip unit, but this fluid is specified for both. No friction modifier additive is required for the factory units.

Notes: Driveline fluids are often neglected. It is recommended to change these fluids every 30,000 to 50,000 miles to prevent wear on the gears and bearings, especially if you tow or drive in harsh conditions.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air over time. This lowers its boiling point and can lead to a spongy pedal or complete brake failure under hard use.

• Type: Motorcraft® DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid
• Specification: Meets and exceeds DOT 4 standards.

Notes: The "LV" (Low Viscosity) designation is important for the proper functioning of the ABS and traction control systems. While a standard DOT 4 fluid can be used in an emergency, the system should be flushed and filled with the recommended LV fluid as soon as possible. Brake fluid should be flushed and replaced every 2-3 years, regardless of mileage.

Other Fluids

• Power Steering: The 2020 Explorer is equipped with Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) and does not use any power steering fluid.
• Windshield Washer Fluid: Use any high-quality washer fluid. For freezing temperatures, use a winter-grade fluid with de-icing properties. Ford’s own Motorcraft® Premium Windshield Wash Concentrate is a good option.

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