2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty Fluid Type Specs

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity (Approximate)
Engine Oil	SAE 5W-30 (Gasoline) / SAE 10W-30 (Diesel) - WSS-M2C961-A1 (Gas) / WSS-M2C171-F1 (Diesel)	7.3L V8 Gas: 7.0 quarts / 6.7L V8 Diesel: 13 quarts
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze/Coolant (Ford WSS-M97B44-D)	26-29 quarts (depending on configuration)
Transmission Fluid	Mercon ULV (10R140 Transmission)	17.5 quarts (initial fill)
Transfer Case	Mercon LV (BW 4470, BW 1356, ESOF)	1.9-2.2 quarts (depending on transfer case)
Front Differential	SAE 75W-85 (Dana M256) / SAE 75W-90 (Dana M275) - WSS-M2C946-A	Dana M256: 2.8 quarts / Dana M275: 3.5 quarts
Rear Differential	SAE 75W-85 (Dana M256) / SAE 75W-90 (Dana M275), SAE 75W-140 (Dana M300) - WSS-M2C300-A2 (M275/M300)	Dana M256: 3.2 quarts / Dana M275: 4.0 quarts / Dana M300: 4.5 quarts
Brake Fluid	Motorcraft DOT 4 Low Viscosity (WSS-M6C65-A2)	Verify in owner's manual
Power Steering Fluid	Mercon LV	Verify in owner's manual
Washer Fluid	Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate (ZC-3A)	Verify in owner's manual
DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid)	ISO 22241 (API CK-4 compatible)	7.5 U.S. Gallons

Engine Oil

For the 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty, the engine oil specifications vary depending on whether you have the gasoline or diesel engine.

For the 7.3L V8 Gasoline Engine: Ford specifies a SAE 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil meeting Ford WSS-M2C961-A1 specification. This specification aligns with API SP requirements, providing enhanced protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI), chain wear, and turbocharger protection. The approximate capacity for an oil change with filter is 7.0 quarts.

For the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Diesel Engine: Ford requires a SAE 10W-30 full synthetic diesel engine oil meeting Ford WSS-M2C171-F1 specification. This specification is crucial for proper lubrication and protection of the modern diesel engine, including those with exhaust aftertreatment systems. Diesel engine oils are designed to handle higher soot loads and provide superior wear protection under heavy-duty conditions. The approximate capacity for an oil change with filter is 13 quarts. Never use gasoline engine oils in a diesel engine and vice-versa, as the additive packages are vastly different and can cause significant damage.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Always adhere to the recommended oil change intervals as outlined in your owner's manual or the vehicle's intelligent oil-life monitor system. Using incorrect oil viscosity or specifications can lead to premature engine wear, reduced fuel economy, and potential warranty voidance.

Engine Coolant

The 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty uses Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze/Coolant, which is a Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolant. This coolant meets Ford specification WSS-M97B44-D. It is identified by its orange color, though color should never be the sole indicator of coolant type. The approximate capacity ranges from 26-29 quarts, depending on your specific engine and cooling system configuration.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Coolant generally has a long service life, but it's critical to check the level and condition periodically. Never mix different types of coolants (e.g., OAT with HOAT) as this can lead to chemical incompatibilities, gel formation, and severe damage to the cooling system and engine. Always use distilled water if mixing concentrate, though pre-mixed solutions are highly recommended for convenience and accuracy. Refer to your owner's manual for specific service intervals.

Transmission Fluid

The 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty with the 10R140 automatic transmission requires Mercon ULV transmission fluid. Mercon ULV (Ultra-Low Viscosity) is a specific formulation designed for modern Ford transmissions to optimize fuel economy and shifting performance. It is crucial to use this exact fluid; using older Mercon specifications or a "universal" ATF product can lead to transmission damage and premature failure. The initial fill capacity is approximately 17.5 quarts, but this can vary during service, so always fill to the correct level using the dipstick or fill plug as per service manual instructions.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Transmission fluid service intervals are critical for the longevity of your transmission, particularly given the heavy-duty nature of the F-250. Towing and hauling can accelerate fluid degradation. Consult your owner's manual for scheduled maintenance, and consider more frequent changes if operating under severe conditions. Never use Mercon V, Mercon LV, or any other fluid where Mercon ULV is specified.

Transfer Case Fluid

For most 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty models with 4WD/AWD, the transfer case requires Mercon LV automatic transmission fluid. Examples of compatible transfer cases include the BW 4470, BW 1356, and ESOF (Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly) systems. The approximate capacity for the transfer case is between 1.9 and 2.2 quarts, depending on the specific unit installed in your truck.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Transfer case fluid protects critical gears and clutches. Regular fluid changes are important, especially if you frequently engage 4WD, tow, or operate in off-road conditions. Using an incorrect fluid type can lead to premature wear and failure of the transfer case components. Always verify the exact fluid type and capacity for your specific transfer case in the owner's manual or OEM service information.

Differential Fluid (Front and Rear)

The 2025 F-250 Super Duty can come with various differential options, and fluid specifications will vary accordingly.

Front Differential:

• Dana M256: Typically uses SAE 75W-85 gear oil meeting Ford WSS-M2C946-A. Approximate capacity is 2.8 quarts.
• Dana M275: Typically uses SAE 75W-90 gear oil meeting Ford WSS-M2C946-A. Approximate capacity is 3.5 quarts.

Rear Differential:

• Dana M256: Typically uses SAE 75W-85 gear oil meeting Ford WSS-M2C946-A. Approximate capacity is 3.2 quarts.
• Dana M275: Typically uses SAE 75W-90 gear oil meeting Ford WSS-M2C300-A2. Approximate capacity is 4.0 quarts.
• Dana M300: This heavy-duty option generally requires SAE 75W-140 gear oil meeting Ford WSS-M2C300-A2. Approximate capacity is 4.5 quarts.

Limited-Slip Differentials (LSD): If your F-250 is equipped with a limited-slip differential, it is absolutely critical to use the specified gear oil that either contains friction modifiers or to add the appropriate friction modifier additive as per Ford's recommendations. Failure to do so will result in chatter, noise, and potential damage to the LSD clutch packs. Always verify your differential type and fluid requirements in your owner's manual.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Differential fluid is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in protecting crucial drivetrain components. Service intervals should be strictly followed, especially for vehicles that tow heavy loads or see significant off-road use. Using the wrong viscosity or failing to include LSD additive where required can lead to premature wear and damage.

Brake Fluid

The 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty typically uses Motorcraft DOT 4 Low Viscosity brake fluid, which meets Ford specification WSS-M6C65-A2. DOT 4 LV fluid is designed to provide excellent braking performance and maintain optimal ABS/ESC system function, especially in cold weather. It's important not to use standard DOT 4 or DOT 3 fluids if DOT 4 LV is specified, as the viscosity differences can affect system performance.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time. This reduces its boiling point and can lead to corrosion in the brake system. Ford recommends periodic brake fluid flushes, typically every two years or 30,000 miles, but always refer to your owner's manual for the precise interval. Never mix DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 fluids. Never use DOT 5 (silicone-based) fluid in a system designed for glycol-based fluids (DOT 3, 4, 5.1), as they are incompatible and will cause damage.

Power Steering Fluid

For the 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty, the power steering system generally uses Mercon LV automatic transmission fluid. While it might seem unusual, many modern Ford power steering systems are designed to operate with this specific ATF. Refer to your owner's manual for the exact specification and capacity.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Power steering fluid rarely needs frequent attention, but it's good practice to check the level periodically. If the fluid appears dark, has a burnt smell, or if you notice any steering issues, it may indicate a need for service. Only use the specified Mercon LV fluid; using incorrect fluids can lead to pump failure or steering system damage.

Washer Fluid

The 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty uses standard windshield washer fluid. Ford recommends Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate (ZC-3A), diluted with water according to package instructions, or a high-quality pre-mixed solution. Ensure the fluid is rated for cold temperatures if you live in a climate where freezing is a concern.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Keep the reservoir topped off. Using plain water in the washer system is not recommended, especially in freezing temperatures, as it can freeze and damage the pump or lines. Additionally, water does not clean as effectively as dedicated washer fluid.

DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid)

For 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty trucks equipped with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine, Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is a critical component of the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system. DEF must meet ISO 22241 standards, which ensures its purity and concentration (32.5% urea solution). You will often see DEF products also stating compatibility with API CK-4 engine oils, though DEF is not oil, this helps signify it is for modern diesel emissions systems. The DEF tank capacity is approximately 7.5 U.S. Gallons.

Intervals and Pitfalls: DEF is consumed during operation, and the vehicle will provide warnings well in advance of the tank running empty. Running out of DEF will eventually limit vehicle speed and prevent engine restart. Always use a high-quality, fresh DEF from a sealed container. Never put DEF in the diesel fuel tank and never put diesel fuel (or any other fluid) in the DEF tank, as this will cause severe and extremely expensive damage to the SCR system.

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