2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty Fluid Type Specs

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity (approximate)
Engine Oil (6.2L)	SAE 5W-30, API SN PLUS or later, WSS-M2C946-B1	7.0 quarts
Engine Oil (7.3L)	SAE 5W-30, API SN PLUS or later, WSS-M2C946-B1	7.5 quarts
Engine Oil (6.7L)	SAE 10W-30 (preferred), WSS-M2C171-F1	13.0 quarts
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze/Coolant, Ford WSS-M97B44-D2	24.5 - 34.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid (6-speed)	MERCON LV	17.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid (10-speed)	MERCON LV	17.3 quarts
Transfer Case	MERCON LV	2.0 quarts
Front Differential	SAE 75W-85 GL-5, Ford Spec WSL-M2C192-A	2.8 - 5.5 pints
Rear Differential	SAE 75W-140 GL-5, Ford Spec WSL-M2C192-A (with friction modifier for LSD)	6.4 - 7.0 pints
Brake Fluid	Motorcraft DOT 4 LV High Performance, WSS-M6C65-A2	As needed
Power Steering	MERCON LV (hydraulic steering)	As needed
Washer Fluid	Ford esp-M8C166-A (Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate)	1.0 gallon
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)	ISO 22241 (API CK-4 compatible)	5.0 gallons

Capacities are approximate and may vary with specific configurations and options. Always verify in your owner's manual or OEM service information.

Engine Oil

For the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty, the engine oil specifications vary by engine type.

6.2L V8 and 7.3L V8 Gasoline Engines: These engines require SAE 5W-30 Motorcraft Super Duty Premium API SN PLUS or equivalent oil. The Ford specification for these engines is WSS-M2C946-B1. Always ensure the oil meets API SN PLUS or a later specification to protect against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI). The recommended oil change interval is typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. For severe duty, consult your owner's manual for shorter intervals.

6.7L Power Stroke V8 Diesel Engine: The preferred engine oil for the 6.7L Power Stroke is SAE 10W-30, meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C171-F1. While 10W-30 is preferred, SAE 5W-40 meeting the same specification can be used when ambient temperatures are consistently below 0°F (-18°C). Using oils that do not meet this specification can lead to accelerated wear and potential damage to the engine and its sensitive emissions systems. Diesel engine oil change intervals vary greatly based on duty cycle, typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 250 engine hours. Fleet vehicles or those frequently towing/hauling may require more frequent changes. Always check the oil life monitor and your owner's manual.

Engine Coolant

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty uses Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze/Coolant, which is an Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant. The Ford specification for this coolant is WSS-M97B44-D2. It is crucial to use only this type of coolant and avoid mixing it with other coolant types (e.g., HOAT, OAT without the specified Ford spec) as this can lead to chemical incompatibilities, gel formation, corrosion, and severe damage to the cooling system and engine. The coolant is typically pre-mixed to a 50/50 ratio with distilled water. The cooling system capacity varies depending on the engine and cab configuration, ranging from approximately 24.5 to 34.0 quarts. The recommended service interval for engine coolant is typically every 100,000 miles or six years, whichever comes first.

Transmission Fluid

The 2020 F-250 Super Duty can be equipped with either a 6-speed automatic transmission (6R100) or a 10-speed automatic transmission (10R140). Both transmissions utilize MERCON LV automatic transmission fluid. It is critical to use only MERCON LV. Using any other type of automatic transmission fluid, including older MERCON or MERCON V, can lead to severe transmission damage. Do not use "universal" ATFs unless they explicitly state MERCON LV compatibility and meet the Ford specification. The typical transmission fluid service interval can vary widely based on driving conditions; Ford often recommends inspection at regular intervals with service only for severe duty, such as heavy towing or frequent off-road use. Consult your owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules.

Transfer Case

The transfer case in the 4x4 F-250 Super Duty also uses MERCON LV automatic transmission fluid. Similar to the transmission, using the correct fluid is paramount to ensure proper lubrication and operation of the transfer case. The typical capacity is around 2.0 quarts. The service interval for the transfer case fluid is generally recommended every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or more frequently for vehicles used in severe conditions like frequent off-roading, towing, or plowing.

Front and Rear Differential

Front Differential: The front differential typically requires a SAE 75W-85 GL-5 gear oil, meeting Ford specification WSL-M2C192-A. The capacity is approximate 2.8 to 5.5 pints, varying with axle type.

Rear Differential: The rear differential requires a SAE 75W-140 GL-5 gear oil, also meeting Ford specification WSL-M2C192-A. Important note for Limited-Slip Differentials (LSD): If your F-250 is equipped with a limited-slip differential, a friction modifier additive must be used with the gear oil to ensure proper operation and prevent chatter. Motorcraft XL-3 Friction Modifier is the recommended additive. Always verify if your truck has an LSD and add the friction modifier if necessary. Rear differential capacities range from approximately 6.4 to 7.0 pints.

For both front and rear differentials, service intervals are typically every 100,000 miles under normal use, or more frequently (e.g., 30,000-50,000 miles) if the vehicle is regularly exposed to water fording, heavy towing, or extreme temperatures.

Brake Fluid

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty uses Motorcraft DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid, meeting Ford specification WSS-M6C65-A2. DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity) fluid is designed for modern braking systems, especially those with ABS and electronic stability control, where lower viscosity is beneficial for faster response times. Never use DOT 3 or DOT 5.1 fluid, as they have different characteristics and can harm the braking system components. DOT 5 fluid is silicone-based and incompatible with DOT 3/4/5.1 systems. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to corrosion in the brake system. Ford recommends inspecting the brake fluid level and condition regularly. The fluid itself is generally recommended for replacement every two to three years, regardless of mileage, due to its moisture absorption properties.

Power Steering Fluid

For F-250 models equipped with hydraulic power steering, the system uses MERCON LV automatic transmission fluid. As with the transmission and transfer case, using MERCON LV is crucial for proper operation and longevity of the power steering pump and other components. Regular inspection of the fluid level and condition is recommended. If the fluid appears dark or smells burnt, it may indicate a need for service.

Washer Fluid

The F-250 Super Duty uses a windshield washer fluid meeting Ford specification esp-M8C166-A, such as Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate. While many aftermarket washer fluids are available, using a quality fluid designed for automotive use will provide good cleaning performance and freeze protection. It's a good habit to keep the washer fluid reservoir topped off, especially before winter.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

For the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine, Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is essential for the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, which reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. DEF must meet the ISO 22241 specification. Look for products labeled as "API Certified" to ensure compliance. The DEF tank capacity is approximately 5.0 gallons. Using uncertified DEF or water in the DEF system can cause severe damage to the SCR system and render the vehicle non-compliant with emissions regulations. The DEF consumption rate varies with driving conditions, but generally, a full tank lasts several thousand miles. The vehicle's instrument cluster will provide warnings when the DEF level is low and will eventually de-rate engine power or prevent engine start if the fluid is not refilled.

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