2018 Ford F-150 Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2018 Ford F-150 has a total cooling system capacity that can range from 12.7 to 15.7 quarts (12.0 to 14.9 liters), depending on the engine.

Quick answer

• Total cooling system capacity: 12.7 to 15.7 quarts (12.0 to 14.9 liters)
• OEM coolant specification: Motorcraft VC-13-G Yellow; OAT (Organic Acid Technology); WSS-M97B57-A1
• Mix ratio: 50/50 with distilled water (or use a pre-mixed 50/50 solution)

Capacity by engine option

Flush interval

• Normal duty: The initial flush should be performed at 10 years or 200,000 miles, whichever comes first. Subsequent flushes should be every 5 years or 100,000 miles.
• Severe duty: The initial flush should be performed at 6 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Subsequent flushes should be every 3 years or 50,000 miles.

How to refill & bleed

1. Ensure the engine is cool. Never open a hot cooling system.
2. Mix the Motorcraft VC-13-G Yellow coolant concentrate with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio. Alternatively, use a pre-mixed 50/50 solution.
3. Slowly pour the coolant into the degas bottle (coolant reservoir) until it reaches the "MAX" line.
4. Start the engine with the heater on its highest setting and the fan on low. Let the engine idle for several minutes to allow the thermostat to open and circulate the coolant.
5. As the coolant circulates, the level in the degas bottle will drop. Continue to add coolant to maintain the level between the "MIN" and "MAX" lines.
6. Some F-150 models may have a bleed screw on the upper radiator hose or thermostat housing to release trapped air. If so, loosen the screw until a steady stream of coolant emerges, then tighten it.
7. For best results, use a vacuum-fill tool to prevent air pockets from forming in the cooling system. This is especially important for the EcoBoost engines, which can be difficult to bleed completely.

Common cooling system issues

• Water pump failure: The water pump is a common failure point on many F-150 engines. Symptoms include a coolant leak from the front of the engine, a whining noise, and engine overheating.
• Coolant leaks: Leaks can occur from a variety of sources, including the radiator, hoses, and thermostat housing. A pressure test can help to identify the source of the leak.
• Thermostat failure: A stuck thermostat can cause the engine to overheat or fail to reach operating temperature.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.