2023 Ford Explorer Fluid Type Specifications
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Quick Reference
| Fluid | Type/Spec | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil | 5W-30 (2.3L EcoBoost), 5W-30 (3.0L EcoBoost), 5W-20 (3.3L Duratec Hybrid) - Ford WSS-M2C961-A1 (5W-20), Ford WSS-M2C960-A1(5W-30) , API SP/ILSAC GF-6B | 6.0 quarts (2.3L EcoBoost), 6.0 quarts (3.0L EcoBoost), 5.7 quarts (3.3L Duratec Hybrid) |
| Engine Coolant | Motorcraft Yellow Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant - Ford WSS-M97B57-A2 (Yellow, OAT) | Approximately 12 quarts (refer to owner's manual) |
| Transmission Fluid | MERCON ULV (10R60/10R80 automatic transmission) | Varies by service (refer to owner's manual) |
| Transfer Case (AWD) | Motorcraft Transfer Case Fluid XL-12 - Ford WSS-M2C938-A | ~1.2 pints |
| Front Differential | Motorcraft SAE 75W-85 Premium Hypoid Gear Oil - Ford WSS-M2C942-A | ~0.6-0.7 quarts (verify in owner's manual) |
| Rear Differential | Motorcraft SAE 75W-85 Premium Hypoid Gear Oil - Ford WSS-M2C942-A | ~1.2-1.4 quarts (verify in owner's manual) |
| Brake Fluid | Motorcraft DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid - Ford WSS-M6C65-A2 | Varies by service |
| Power Steering Fluid | Electric Power-Assist Steering (EPAS) - No serviceable fluid | N/A |
| Washer Fluid | Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate | 1 gallon (reservoir capacity) |
| DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) | N/A (Gasoline Only) | N/A |
Engine Oil
For the 2023 Ford Explorer, engine oil specifications vary by engine type:
- 2.3L EcoBoost: 5W-30, meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C960-A1 and API SP/ILSAC GF-6B. Capacity is approximately 6.0 quarts.
- 3.0L EcoBoost (ST/Platinum): 5W-30, meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C960-A1 and API SP/ILSAC GF-6B. Capacity is approximately 6.0 quarts.
- 3.3L Duratec Hybrid: 5W-20, meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C961-A1 and API SP/ILSAC GF-6B. Capacity is approximately 5.7 quarts.
Oil Change Intervals: Ford generally recommends an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every 6-12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. However, the Explorer is equipped with an Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor (IOLM) system. This system calculates the optimal oil change interval based on your specific driving habits and conditions. Always refer to the in-vehicle display and your owner's manual for the most accurate service interval.
Common Pitfalls: Always use an oil that meets the specified Ford WSS-M2C9xx-A1 specification and the latest API (American Petroleum Institute) and ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee) standards. Using an incorrect oil type or a conventional oil not meeting the required specifications can lead to premature engine wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential warranty issues. Ford EcoBoost engines, in particular, benefit from high-quality synthetic or synthetic blend oils to combat potential low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and maintain turbocharger longevity.
Engine Coolant
The 2023 Ford Explorer utilizes Motorcraft Yellow Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant, which is an Organic Acid Technology (OAT) formulation. Its Ford specification is WSS-M97B57-A2. The color of the coolant is yellow.
Coolant Change Intervals: Ford recommends replacing the engine coolant every 100,000 miles or 6 years, whichever comes first, for the initial change. Subsequent changes are typically recommended every 50,000 miles or 3 years. Always check your owner's manual for the most precise intervals.
Common Pitfalls: Never mix different types of coolants (e.g., OAT with HOAT or IAT). Mixing incompatible coolants can lead to chemical reactions that cause gel formation, corrosion, and damage to the cooling system components, including the water pump, radiator, and heater core. Always use the specified Motorcraft Yellow coolant or an aftermarket equivalent that explicitly states it meets Ford WSS-M97B57-A2. Using generic
More specs for the 2023 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
2023 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.
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Values can vary by engine, trim and build date; check your VIN-specific service information. Updated 2026-06-26.