2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty can hold between 20.8 and 38.3 quarts (19.7 to 36.2 liters) of coolant, depending on the engine and powertrain configuration.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 20.8 to 38.3 quarts (19.7 to 36.2 liters)
• OEM Coolant Specification: Ford VC-13-G Yellow; Motorcraft Yellow Antifreeze/Coolant (P-OAT). Ford Specification WSS-M97B57-A2.
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water.

Capacity by Engine Option

The cooling system capacity for the 2020 F-250 varies significantly based on the installed engine.

Note: The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine features two separate cooling systems: a primary high-temperature system for the engine and a secondary low-temperature system for the transmission oil cooler, charge air cooler, and fuel cooler. The capacities listed are for the primary system.

Flush Interval

Ford specifies different coolant service intervals based on driving conditions.

• Normal Service: The initial coolant flush is recommended at 10 years or 200,000 miles. Subsequent flushes are recommended every 5 years or 100,000 miles.
• Severe Duty: For vehicles that see heavy towing, extensive idling, or operate in extreme temperatures, it is wise to shorten the interval. A 100,000-mile or 6-year interval is a safe recommendation.

How to Refill & Bleed

Properly refilling and bleeding the cooling system is critical to avoid air pockets, which can cause overheating.

1. Mix Coolant: If using concentrate, mix it 50/50 with distilled water before adding.
2. Fill Slowly: Add the coolant mixture to the degas bottle (coolant reservoir) slowly to allow air to escape.
3. Run Engine: With the heater on high, start the engine and let it run for several minutes to circulate the coolant.
4. Top Off: As the thermostat opens and coolant circulates, the level in the degas bottle will drop. Top it off to the "MAX" line as needed.
5. Check for Leaks: Inspect all hoses, the radiator, and the water pump for any signs of leaks.

Special Note: While a traditional bleed is possible, many technicians prefer using a vacuum-fill tool on modern trucks like the F-250. This tool pulls the system into a vacuum, removing all air before coolant is drawn in, ensuring a complete, air-free fill.

Common Cooling System Issues

The 2018-2022 Super Duty generation is generally robust, but some issues can arise.

• Degas Bottle Leaks: The plastic coolant reservoir (degas bottle) can develop hairline cracks over time, leading to slow coolant loss.
• EGR Cooler Issues (6.7L Diesel): While improved in later models, the EGR cooler can still be a point of failure, potentially causing coolant to be consumed by the engine.
• Water Pump Failure: As with any vehicle, the water pump is a wear item. A weep from the pump pulley area is an early sign of a failing seal.
• Radiator Leaks: Damage from road debris or corrosion can cause the radiator to leak. The plastic end tanks are common failure points.

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