2017 Ford Transit Fluid Type Specs

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil (3.2L Diesel)	SAE 5W-40 Full Synthetic (Ford Spec WSS-M2C171-F1)	12.7 quarts (12 liters)
Engine Oil (3.5L EcoBoost)	SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic (Ford Spec WSS-M2C946-B1)	6.0 quarts (5.7 liters)
Engine Oil (3.7L V6)	SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Blend (Ford Spec WSS-M2C945-B1)	6.0 quarts (5.7 liters)
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze / Coolant (Ford Spec WVC-3-D2)	12.7 - 16.2 quarts (12.0 - 15.3 liters) - Varies by engine/powertrain
Automatic Transmission Fluid	Motorcraft MERCON LV	12.0 quarts (11.4 liters)
Rear Differential (All)	SAE 75W-85 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant (Ford Spec WSS-M2C942-A)	1.9 - 2.8 quarts (1.8 - 2.7 liters)
Brake Fluid	DOT 4 LV High Performance	As required
Power Steering Fluid	Motorcraft MERCON LV	As required
Windshield Washer Fluid	-	As required
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)	API Certified ISO 22241	5.0 gallons (18.9 liters)

Engine Oil

The 2017 Ford Transit came with three distinct engine options, each requiring a specific type of engine oil to ensure longevity and performance. Using the wrong oil can lead to reduced fuel economy, increased engine wear, and potential damage to emissions components.

• 3.2L Power Stroke Diesel: This engine requires SAE 5W-40 Full Synthetic Diesel Motor Oil meeting Ford's stringent WSS-M2C171-F1 specification. This is a heavy-duty oil designed to handle the high temperatures and pressures of a modern turbodiesel, while providing protection for the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). Capacity is approximately 12.7 quarts.
• 3.5L EcoBoost V6: This turbocharged gasoline engine demands SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic oil that meets Ford specification WSS-M2C946-B1. This spec is backward-compatible with the older WSS-M2C946-A and is equivalent to the API SP and ILSAC GF-6A standards. Full synthetic oil is critical for protecting the turbocharger bearings from heat and preventing deposit formation.
• 3.7L Ti-VCT V6: The naturally aspirated V6 is specified to use SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Blend motor oil meeting Ford's WSS-M2C945-B1 specification. While not a full synthetic, a synthetic blend is required to provide the necessary protection and fuel economy.

Intervals: Ford's Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor (IOLM) will determine the optimal oil change interval based on your driving habits. However, a good rule of thumb is every 7,500-10,000 miles for gasoline engines and every 10,000-15,000 miles for the diesel, or as indicated by the IOLM.

Engine Coolant

All 2017 Ford Transit models use Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze / Coolant, which is an Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant. It meets Ford specification WVC-3-D2. It is critical not to mix this with other coolant types, such as the older green Inorganic Additive Technology (IAT) or the gold/yellow Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants. Mixing coolant chemistries can cause them to gel, leading to blockages in the radiator, heater core, and cooling passages, which can cause severe engine overheating.

Capacity: The cooling system capacity varies significantly based on the engine and whether the vehicle is equipped with an auxiliary heater, ranging from 12.7 to 16.2 quarts. Always verify the capacity for your specific configuration.

Transmission Fluid

The 2017 Transit is equipped with the 6R80 6-speed automatic transmission. The required fluid is Motorcraft MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). This is a modern, low-viscosity fluid designed for consistent shift quality and durability.

Important: Do not use any other type of MERCON fluid (such as MERCON V) or any "universal" ATF. Using the incorrect fluid can cause harsh shifting, transmission shudder, and eventual component failure. A full fluid service, including a filter change, should be performed roughly every 60,000 to 100,000 miles under normal use.

Rear Differential

All 2017 Transits, being rear-wheel drive, require a specific gear oil for the rear differential to lubricate the ring and pinion gears. The factory specification is SAE 75W-85 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant meeting Ford spec WSS-M2C942-A. If the vehicle is equipped with a limited-slip differential (LSD), it is crucial to add 8 oz. of XL-3 Friction Modifier to prevent clutch chatter during turns.

Brake Fluid

Ford specifies DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid. The "LV" stands for Low Viscosity, which is essential for the proper operation of the ABS and electronic stability control systems, especially in cold weather. While DOT 3 is technically compatible, using the specified DOT 4 LV fluid ensures the safety systems function as designed. Brake fluid should be flushed and replaced every 2-3 years, as it is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture from the air, which can lower its boiling point and corrode internal brake components.

Power Steering Fluid

The hydraulic power steering system in the 2017 Transit also uses Motorcraft MERCON LV. This is the same fluid as the automatic transmission. It is important not to confuse this with older power steering fluids. Check the fluid level periodically and top off as needed. If the fluid appears dark or smells burnt, a system flush may be necessary.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

For Transits equipped with the 3.2L Power Stroke diesel engine, Diesel Exhaust Fluid is required for the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to reduce NOx emissions. Use a high-quality DEF that is API Certified and meets ISO 22241 standards. The DEF tank holds approximately 5.0 gallons and will need to be refilled every several thousand miles, depending on driving style and load. The dashboard will provide ample warning before the tank runs empty.

Windshield Washer Fluid

Use any high-quality windshield washer solvent. In colder climates, use a fluid with an appropriate antifreeze rating to prevent freezing in the reservoir or on the windshield.

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