2019 Ford Transit — Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2019 Ford Transit holds approximately 14.7 quarts (13.9 liters) of coolant.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 14.7 quarts (13.9 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: Ford/Motorcraft Specialty Orange Coolant (VC-3-B / WSS-M97B44-D) or equivalent. This is a Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolant.
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 prediluted, or 50/50 concentrate mixed with distilled water.

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2019 Ford Transit offered several engine options, and their cooling system capacities are relatively consistent across the board.

Note: These capacities are for the entire cooling system, including the radiator, engine block, heater core, and hoses.

Flush Interval

Maintaining your coolant is crucial for the longevity of your 2019 Ford Transit's engine. Ford recommends the following coolant flush intervals:

• Normal Duty: Every 6 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If you frequently tow heavy loads, operate in extreme temperatures, or drive on dusty roads, consider shortening the interval to every 5 years or 75,000 miles.

Regular coolant flushes remove contaminants and replenish the corrosion inhibitors, preventing costly damage to your cooling system components.

How to Refill & Bleed

Refilling and bleeding the cooling system on your 2019 Ford Transit requires careful attention to ensure all air is removed. Air pockets can lead to overheating and engine damage.

1. Drain the old coolant: Ensure the engine is cool. Open the radiator drain plug and, if applicable, drain plugs on the engine block. Collect the old coolant in an appropriate container for disposal.
2. Flush the system (optional but recommended): Once drained, you can flush the system with distilled water until the water runs clear. Some technicians prefer using a dedicated cooling system flush product.
3. Close drain plugs: Securely close all drain plugs.
4. Refill with new coolant: Slowly fill the coolant reservoir with the specified Ford/Motorcraft Specialty Orange Coolant (VC-3-B / WSS-M97B44-D) or equivalent, using a 50/50 mix. Fill to the "MAX" line.
5. Bleed the system:
   • Start the engine and let it run with the heater on full blast and the fan on low. This helps open the thermostat and circulate coolant through the heater core.
   • Regularly check the coolant level in the reservoir and top off as needed. Squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses to help dislodge air bubbles.
   • Some Transit models, especially those with the diesel engine, may have a dedicated bleed screw on a hose or thermostat housing. If present, open it slightly until a steady stream of coolant emerges, then close it.
   • Continue to run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature and the cooling fans cycle on and off a few times. This indicates the thermostat has opened fully.
   • After the engine cools down, recheck the coolant level in the reservoir and adjust as necessary.
6. Final check: Keep an eye on the coolant level over the next few drive cycles and top off if it drops.

If you are unsure or uncomfortable performing this procedure, it is always best to consult with a qualified mechanic.

Common Cooling System Issues

Owners of the 2019 Ford Transit may encounter some common cooling system issues, which can vary slightly depending on the engine:

• Thermostat Housing Leaks: This is a fairly common issue on many Ford engines, including those found in the Transit. The plastic thermostat housing can become brittle over time and develop cracks, leading to coolant leaks.
• Water Pump Leaks: The water pump is a wear item, and its seal can eventually fail, causing coolant to leak. Squealing noises from the front of the engine can also indicate a failing water pump bearing.
• Coolant Hoses and Radiator Leaks: Over time, coolant hoses can degrade, crack, and leak. The radiator itself can also develop leaks, often due to corrosion or physical damage from road debris.
• Degradation of Coolant: Using the incorrect type of coolant or neglecting flush intervals can lead to the degradation of the coolant's protective properties, resulting in corrosion and sludge buildup within the system. This can clog the radiator or heater core.

Address any signs of a cooling system problem promptly to prevent more severe engine damage.

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