2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty Fluid Type Specs

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	5W-30 (6.2L Gas), 10W-30 (6.7L Diesel) - WSS-M2C946-B1 (Gas), WSS-M2C171-F1 (Diesel)	7.0 quarts (6.2L Gas), 13.0 quarts (6.7L Diesel)
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft Orange Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant VC-3-B (P-OAT)	Approximately 17.6-20.0 quarts (verify in owner's manual)
Transmission Fluid	Motorcraft MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid	Approximately 17.0 quarts (6R100/6R140)
Transfer Case	Motorcraft MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid	2.0 quarts (TOD, ESOF)
Front Differential	75W-85 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant (Ford Spec XPS-M2C192-A)	3.0 quarts (Dana M256), 2.75 quarts (Dana M275)
Rear Differential	75W-140 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant (Ford Spec WSL-M2C192-A)	3.5 quarts (Dana M275/M300), 4.0 quarts (Sterling 10.5)
Brake Fluid	Motorcraft DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV)	As needed
Power Steering	Motorcraft MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid	As needed
Washer Fluid	Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate (ZC-3A)	As needed
DEF (Diesel)	Motorcraft Diesel Exhaust Fluid (Motorcraft PM-27-J) - ISO 22241	7.5 gallons

Engine Oil

For the 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, engine oil specifications vary based on the engine.

6.2L Gasoline Engine: Uses SAE 5W-30 motor oil meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C946-B1. It is crucial to use oil that meets this specific Ford standard to ensure proper engine lubrication and longevity. Oil change intervals are typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every 6-12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. For severe duty (towing, commercial use, extreme temperatures), more frequent changes may be necessary. Always verify in your owner's manual or OEM service information.

6.7L Power Stroke Diesel Engine: Requires SAE 10W-30 motor oil meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C171-F1. This is a robust engine with specific lubrication needs for its high-pressure fuel system and turbocharger. Using an incorrect oil type or weight can lead to premature wear and potential engine damage. Diesel engine oil change intervals are generally every 10,000 miles or 12 months, or 250 engine hours, whichever comes first. Again, severe duty conditions warrant more frequent changes. Never use oils not specifically rated for diesel engines, especially those designed for gasoline engines, as they lack the necessary additives to combat soot and acid buildup in diesel engines.

Common Pitfalls: Always check the oil level regularly and ensure the oil fill cap is securely in place after adding oil. Using conventional oil when synthetic is specified can reduce protection and longevity. Mixing different oil types (e.g., conventional and synthetic) is generally discouraged.

Engine Coolant

The 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty utilizes Motorcraft Orange Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant (VC-3-B), which is a Phosphate Organic Acid Technology (P-OAT) coolant. This coolant is orange in color and is specifically formulated to protect aluminum and other metal components from corrosion. Ford specifies this coolant to meet their internal material compatibility and corrosion protection standards.

Capacity: The cooling system capacity can vary slightly by engine and cab configuration, typically ranging from 17.6 to 20.0 quarts. Always refer to your owner's manual or OEM service information for the precise capacity for your specific vehicle.

Service Interval: Ford generally recommends a coolant flush and fill every 100,000 miles or 6 years, whichever comes first, for initial replacement. Subsequent changes may be at longer intervals. However, it's good practice to inspect the coolant level and condition regularly. If the coolant appears discolored or has particles, it may indicate a problem that needs addressing.

Common Pitfalls: Never mix different types or colors of coolant (e.g., green IAT, yellow HOAT, or other OAT variants) with the factory-spec orange P-OAT coolant. Doing so can lead to chemical incompatibilities, gelling, reduced corrosion protection, and potential damage to the cooling system components like the water pump, radiator, and heater core. Always use distilled water if mixing concentrate, but the Motorcraft VC-3-B is pre-diluted to a 50/50 ratio.

Transmission Fluid

The 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, equipped with either the 6R100 or 6R140 automatic transmission, specifies Motorcraft MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid. MERCON LV is a low-viscosity, fully synthetic fluid designed for improved fuel economy and enhanced performance in modern Ford transmissions. It is critical to use only MERCON LV and never substitute with generic "universal" ATFs or older MERCON V fluid, as their differing friction characteristics and viscosities can cause shifting problems, premature wear, and even transmission failure.

Capacity: A full transmission fluid change, including the torque converter, is approximately 17.0 quarts. A pan drop and filter change will typically only replace about 7-8 quarts. Always consult your owner's manual for the exact capacity.

Service Interval: Ford typically recommends inspecting the transmission fluid level and condition every 30,000 miles and changing the fluid every 150,000 miles under normal driving conditions. However, for vehicles used in heavy-duty applications, such as frequent towing, hauling, or off-road use, more frequent fluid and filter changes (e.g., every 60,000 to 75,000 miles) are highly recommended to maintain transmission health.

Common Pitfalls: Overfilling or underfilling the transmission can lead to serious issues. Always check the fluid level with the transmission at operating temperature and the vehicle on a level surface, as per the owner's manual instructions. Never use unapproved fluids. If fluid appears brown or has a burnt smell, it indicates excessive heat or wear and requires immediate attention.

Transfer Case Fluid

For 4x4 models, the 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty transfer case also uses Motorcraft MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid. This fluid functions as a lubricant for the internal gears and chain of the transfer case, ensuring smooth operation in both 2WD and 4WD modes.

Capacity: The transfer case typically holds around 2.0 quarts of fluid. This can vary slightly between the electronic shift-on-the-fly (ESOF) and part-time manual shift transfer cases, but the fluid type remains the same.

Service Interval: Ford recommends inspecting the transfer case fluid every 30,000 miles and changing it every 150,000 miles under normal conditions. For severe duty (frequent 4x4 engagement, heavy towing, off-roading), consider reducing this interval to 60,000 to 75,000 miles to prevent wear from increased heat and stress.

Common Pitfalls: Neglecting transfer case fluid can lead to premature wear of internal components. Using an incorrect fluid can cause binding or damage. Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface when checking and filling the transfer case to prevent inaccurate readings.

Front and Rear Differential Fluid

Differential fluid types vary by axle for the 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, and some require a friction modifier if equipped with a limited-slip differential.

Front Differential: Typically requires a 75W-85 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant meeting Ford Specification XPS-M2C192-A. The capacity is generally around 3.0 quarts for the Dana M256 axle and 2.75 quarts for the Dana M275 axle.

Rear Differential: Commonly uses a 75W-140 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant meeting Ford Specification WSL-M2C192-A. Capacities vary: approximately 3.5 quarts for the Dana M275/M300 and 4.0 quarts for the Sterling 10.5-inch axle. If your F-250 is equipped with a limited-slip differential (LSD), a friction modifier additive must be used with the gear oil to prevent chatter and ensure proper operation of the clutch packs. Ford offers a specific friction modifier (e.g., Motorcraft XL-3).

Service Interval: Ford recommends inspecting differential fluid every 30,000 miles and changing it every 150,000 miles for normal use. Vehicles frequently used for towing, hauling, or off-roading should have their differential fluids changed more frequently, often every 50,000 to 75,000 miles, due to increased heat and stress on the gear oil.

Common Pitfalls: Using the wrong weight or type of gear oil can lead to premature wear of gears and bearings. Failing to add friction modifier to a limited-slip differential will result in chattering noises, especially during turns, and can damage the LSD clutches. Always check the fluid level on a level surface and avoid overfilling.

Brake Fluid

The 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty uses Motorcraft DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) Brake Fluid. DOT 4 LV fluid offers superior performance, especially in vehicles with advanced braking systems like ABS and Stability Control, due to its lower viscosity at cold temperatures. This ensures faster response and better pedal feel compared to standard DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluids.

Capacity: The brake fluid system capacity is "as needed" – typically, a fluid flush will require 1-2 liters to thoroughly replace old fluid.

Service Interval: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which can lower its boiling point and lead to corrosion in the brake system. Ford recommends checking the fluid level and condition regularly. A brake fluid flush is generally recommended every 2 years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first, to maintain optimal braking performance and prevent component corrosion. Although some manufacturers claim "lifetime" fluid, this is not true of brake fluid, and regular replacement is critical for safety.

Common Pitfalls: Never mix DOT 3, DOT 4, or DOT 5.1 fluids with DOT 5 (silicone-based) fluid. DOT 5 is incompatible and can cause severe damage to the brake system. Always use fresh fluid from a sealed container, as brake fluid rapidly absorbs moisture once opened. Do not allow the master cylinder reservoir to run dry during a flush, as this can introduce air into the ABS system, requiring specialized bleeding procedures.

Power Steering Fluid

For the 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, the power steering system uses Motorcraft MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid. This is the same fluid specified for the automatic transmission and transfer case, simplifying fluid inventories.

Capacity: The power steering system capacity is "as needed" for topping off. A full flush will typically require about 1-2 quarts.

Service Interval: Power steering fluid does not have a strict replacement interval specified by Ford for normal use, but it is good practice to inspect the fluid level and condition regularly. If the fluid appears dark, murky, or has a burnt smell, it indicates degradation and should be flushed. A general recommendation for a power steering fluid flush is every 50,000 to 75,000 miles, especially in vehicles subjected to heavy use.

Common Pitfalls: Using an incorrect power steering fluid or generic power steering fluid can lead to pump noise, steering issues, and premature component wear. Always use MERCON LV. Avoid overfilling the reservoir, which can lead to fluid leaks or aeration.

Washer Fluid

Any high-quality windshield washer fluid is suitable for the 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty. Ford recommends their Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate (ZC-3A), which can be diluted with water to suit various climates and preferences. Using a fluid with de-icing properties is beneficial in colder climates.

Capacity: As needed. The reservoir typically holds 1 to 1.5 gallons.

Common Pitfalls: Never use plain water in the washer fluid reservoir, especially in freezing temperatures, as it can freeze and damage the pump, lines, and reservoir. Avoid using household cleaners or engine coolant, as these can damage paint, rubber seals, and the washer system components.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

For the 6.7L Power Stroke Diesel engine in the 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is critical for the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, which reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. DEF must meet ISO 22241 standard, such as Motorcraft Diesel Exhaust Fluid (PM-27-J). This standard ensures the purity and concentration (32.5% urea solution) required for proper SCR system operation.

Capacity: The DEF tank typically holds around 7.5 gallons (28.4 liters).

Service Interval: DEF consumption depends on engine load, driving style, and ambient temperature, but generally, a full tank lasts several thousand miles. The vehicle's instrument cluster will display DEF levels and warn when refills are needed. Always monitor the DEF level.

Common Pitfalls: Only use DEF that meets the ISO 22241 standard. Never put DEF in the diesel fuel tank, or diesel fuel in the DEF tank, as this will cause severe and costly damage to both the fuel and SCR systems. Store DEF in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, and avoid using DEF that is past its expiration date or has been frozen and thawed repeatedly, as its effectiveness can be compromised. If the DEF system encounters a fault, the vehicle may enter a "limp mode" or have limited restarts to comply with emission regulations.

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