2020 Ford Transit Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2020 Ford Transit holds approximately 14.7 quarts (13.9 liters) of coolant.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: Approximately 14.7 quarts (13.9 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: Ford Yellow Antifreeze/Coolant, meeting Ford Specification WSS-M97B57-A2 (P-OAT - Phosphated Organic Additive Technology)
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 prediluted or 50/50 mix with distilled water if using concentrate.

Capacity by Engine Option

For the 2020 Ford Transit, the coolant capacity is generally consistent across the available engine options due to similar cooling system designs. The approximate capacity is 14.7 quarts (13.9 liters) for both the 3.5L PFDi V6 and the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engines.

Flush Interval

Ford recommends a coolant flush and fill for the 2020 Ford Transit at the following intervals:

• Normal Duty: Every 6 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If your vehicle is subjected to severe operating conditions (heavy towing, extreme temperatures, dusty conditions, extensive idling, or off-road use), it's advisable to inspect your coolant more frequently and consider a flush every 3 years or 50,000 miles.

Regularly checking your coolant level and condition is crucial regardless of duty cycle. Even if not at the flush interval, top off with the specified coolant as needed.

How to Refill & Bleed

Refilling and bleeding the cooling system on your 2020 Ford Transit is a critical step after any cooling system service to prevent air pockets that can cause overheating.

1. Preparation: Ensure the engine is cool. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Drain (if flushing): If you are performing a full flush, drain the old coolant from the radiator draincock and engine block drain plugs (if equipped and accessible). Flush with distilled water until clear.
3. Refill: Close all drain points. Slowly pour a 50/50 mix of the specified Ford Yellow coolant into the coolant degas bottle (expansion tank) until it reaches the "MAX FILL" line.
4. Bleeding Procedure:
   • Leave the degas bottle cap off.
   • Start the engine and let it idle with the heater turned to its highest setting and fan on low. This helps open the heater core valve and circulate coolant through the entire system.
   • As the engine warms up, the thermostat will open, and the coolant level in the degas bottle may drop as air purges from the system. Continuously add coolant to maintain the level between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks.
   • Monitor Temperature: Keep a close eye on the temperature gauge to ensure the engine doesn't overheat. If it starts to climb, shut off the engine and allow it to cool before continuing.
   • Squeeze Hoses: Gently squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses several times to help dislodge any trapped air bubbles.
   • Run Until Warm: Continue running the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature and you feel hot air coming from the heater vents (indicating coolant is circulating through the heater core).
   • Cool Down & Recheck: Turn off the engine and allow it to cool completely. Once cool, recheck the coolant level in the degas bottle and top off as necessary. Repeat the bleed procedure if the level drops significantly after cooling.
5. Final Check: Install the degas bottle cap. Drive the vehicle for a short trip and then recheck the coolant level once the engine has cooled down again.

Ford Transit vans generally self-bleed quite well, but patience is key to ensure all air is removed.

Common Cooling System Issues for this Generation

The 2020 Ford Transit, while generally robust, can experience some common cooling system-related issues, similar to many modern vehicles:

• Coolant Leaks: Leaks can occur from various points, including radiator end tanks, hoses (especially at connection points), the water pump, and the degas bottle itself. Minor cracks in the plastic degas bottle are not uncommon over time.
• Water Pump Failure: The water pump, like any mechanical part, can eventually fail, leading to leaks or insufficient coolant circulation. Symptoms include squealing noises, coolant leaks near the pump, or engine overheating.
• Thermostat Issues: A faulty thermostat can either fail to open (leading to overheating) or fail to close (leading to the engine running cold and reduced heater performance).
• EGR Cooler Leaks (EcoBoost Models): On EcoBoost engines, the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler can be a source of coolant leaks into the exhaust system, often manifesting as a sweet smell from the exhaust or coolant consumption without visible external leaks.
• Degas Bottle Cap Failure: A failing degas bottle cap can lose its ability to hold pressure, leading to coolant loss through boiling or incorrect system pressure, which can exacerbate other issues.

Regular inspections and adherence to the recommended maintenance schedule can help prevent or address these issues proactively.

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