2023 Ford Transit Fluid Type Specs

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity (approximate)
Engine Oil	SAE 5W-30 / WSS-M2C961-A1 (API SP/ILSAC GF-6A)	7.3 quarts (2.0L EcoBoost), 9.0 quarts (3.5L EcoBoost), 11.2 quarts (3.5L PFDi)
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft Yellow Antifreeze/Coolant (WSS-M97B57-A2)	14.5-16.5 quarts (depending on engine/configuration)
Transmission Fluid	MERCON ULV (10R80 Automatic)	13.1 quarts (initial fill)
Transfer Case	N/A - RWD/AWD only. AWD Transfer Case: MERCON LV	1.6-1.7 quarts (AWD)
Front Differential	SAE 75W-85 GL-5 / XO-75W85-QSP (AWD)	1.3-1.5 quarts (AWD)
Rear Differential	SAE 75W-90 GL-5 / XY-75W90-QLS (With LSD: C-MLSD-M3)	2.5-3.0 quarts (varies by axle)
Brake Fluid	Motorcraft DOT 4 LV High Performance (WSS-M6C65-A2)	As needed
Power Steering	Electric Power-Assist Steering (EPAS) - no fluid	N/A
Washer Fluid	Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate	1 gallon
DEF (Diesel only)	Motorcraft Diesel Exhaust Fluid (ISO 22241)	5.0 gallons

Engine Oil

The 2023 Ford Transit offers several engine options, and each requires a specific engine oil to ensure optimal performance and longevity. For all gasoline engines, Ford specifies SAE 5W-30 motor oil that meets Ford specification WSS-M2C961-A1. This specification generally aligns with API service category SP and ILSAC performance standard GF-6A, which are the latest industry standards designed for modern gasoline engines, offering improved fuel economy, protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI), and timing chain wear protection. Owners should always verify the specific oil requirement in their owner's manual based on their engine (2.0L EcoBoost, 3.5L EcoBoost, or 3.5L PFDi).

Capacity:

• 2.0L EcoBoost: Approximately 7.3 quarts
• 3.5L EcoBoost: Approximately 9.0 quarts
• 3.5L PFDi (Port Fuel-Direct Injection): Approximately 11.2 quarts

Intervals and Pitfalls: Ford recommends oil changes typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe duty cycles (e.g., heavy towing, extensive idling, off-road use) may require more frequent changes. Always use an oil filter that meets Ford's specifications to maintain proper filtration and oil pressure. Failure to use the correct oil type or maintain proper change intervals can lead to premature engine wear, reduced fuel economy, and potential voiding of warranty.

Engine Coolant

The 2023 Ford Transit uses Motorcraft Yellow Antifreeze/Coolant, which is an ethylene glycol-based, silicate-free, nitrite-free, and borate-free coolant. This coolant meets Ford specification WSS-M97B57-A2. It is an Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant with a hybrid additive package, providing excellent corrosion protection for all engine metals, including aluminum, for an extended period.

Capacity: The coolant capacity varies depending on the specific engine and vehicle configuration, generally ranging from 14.5 to 16.5 quarts.

Intervals and Pitfalls: The factory fill coolant is designed for a very long service life, often up to 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. When topping off or refilling, always use the specified Motorcraft Yellow Antifreeze/Coolant mixed with distilled water to a 50/50 ratio. Never mix different types of coolants (e.g., HOAT, OAT, IAT) as this can lead to chemical incompatibility, gelling,, and reduced corrosion protection, potentially causing severe damage to the cooling system. Always ensure the cooling system is properly bled after any service to prevent air pockets.

Transmission Fluid

The 2023 Ford Transit models equipped with the 10-speed automatic transmission (10R80) require MERCON ULV (Ultra Low Viscosity) transmission fluid. This is a highly specialized, low-viscosity fluid designed specifically for this advanced transmission to optimize fuel economy and shift performance. It is critical to use only MERCON ULV fluid and never substitute with other MERCON specifications like MERCON LV or MERCON V, as this can cause transmission damage and poor operation.

Capacity: The initial fill capacity for the 10R80 transmission is approximately 13.1 quarts.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Ford generally recommends transmission fluid changes under specific conditions or for severe duty. Consult your owner's manual for the specific service interval, especially if your vehicle is used for heavy-duty applications. Always use genuine Motorcraft MERCON ULV fluid and an approved filter. Incorrect fluid or improper fill levels can lead to erratic shifting, premature wear, and transmission failure.

Transfer Case (AWD Models)

For 2023 Ford Transit models equipped with All-Wheel Drive (AWD), a transfer case is present. The transfer case requires MERCON LV automatic transmission fluid. Note that this is different from the MERCON ULV used in the 10R80 transmission.

Capacity: Approximately 1.6-1.7 quarts.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Refer to your owner's manual for the recommended service interval for the transfer case fluid, especially if the vehicle is frequently driven in AWD mode or under demanding conditions. Using the incorrect fluid type can lead to premature wear or failure of the transfer case components.

Front Differential (AWD Models)

Transit models with AWD feature a front differential. This differential requires SAE 75W-85 GL-5 gear oil. Ford specifies Motorcraft SAE 75W-85 Premium Hypoid Gear Lubricant / XO-75W85-QSP.

Capacity: Approximately 1.3-1.5 quarts.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Differential fluid is typically a long-life lubricant, but specific service intervals can be found in the owner's manual. Heavy-duty use, such as frequent towing, can necessitate more frequent fluid changes. Always use a GL-5 rated gear oil of the specified viscosity. Do not use GL-4 fluids as they lack the extreme pressure additives required for hypoid gears.

Rear Differential

The rear differential on the 2023 Ford Transit requires SAE 75W-90 GL-5 hypoid gear oil. For vehicles equipped with a limited-slip differential (LSD), a friction modifier additive is essential. Ford specifies Motorcraft SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant / XY-75W90-QLS. If a limited-slip differential is present, often an additional friction modifier, such as Motorcraft Limited Slip Additive (C-MLSD-M3), may be required in quantities of about 4 oz per fill, or a fluid that already contains the additive should be used. Always verify your specific axle code and requirements.

Capacity: Approximately 2.5-3.0 quarts, varying by axle type and gear ratio.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Similar to the front differential, the rear differential fluid typically has extended service intervals under normal use, but these shorten considerably with heavy towing or frequent hard acceleration. Using the wrong fluid type or failing to include the friction modifier for an LSD can lead to chatter, noise, and premature wear of the differential clutches. Always check for proper fill level after service.

Brake Fluid

The 2023 Ford Transit uses Motorcraft DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid, meeting Ford specification WSS-M6C65-A2. The "LV" indicates Low Viscosity, which is crucial for modern ABS, traction control, and stability control systems to operate effectively, especially in cold temperatures.

Capacity: As needed for topping off or system flush.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which can lower its boiling point and lead to corrosion within the brake system. Ford recommends brake fluid replacement typically every two years, regardless of mileage, to maintain optimal braking performance and system integrity. Never use DOT 5 (silicone-based) brake fluid as it is incompatible with DOT 3, DOT 4, or DOT 5.1 systems and will cause seal damage. Always keep brake fluid containers sealed to prevent moisture absorption. Bleed the system thoroughly to remove air pockets after any service.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2023 Ford Transit is equipped with an Electric Power-Assist Steering (EPAS) system. This system is entirely electric and does not use traditional hydraulic power steering fluid. Therefore, there is no power steering fluid to check or replace.

Washer Fluid

For the windshield washer system, the 2023 Ford Transit uses standard windshield washer fluid. Ford recommends Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate mixed with water according to package directions, or a pre-mixed washer fluid. Use of a fluid with antifreeze properties is recommended in colder climates.

Capacity: Approximately 1 U.S. gallon.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Top off as needed. Using plain water in freezing temperatures can lead to cracking of the washer fluid reservoir, pump, and lines. Avoid using household detergents or engine coolant in the washer system, as they can damage paint, rubber, and plastic components.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

For 2023 Ford Transit diesel models, Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is required for the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The DEF used must meet ISO 22241 standards. Ford recommends Motorcraft Diesel Exhaust Fluid.

Capacity: Approximately 5.0 gallons.

Intervals and Pitfalls: The DEF tank will need refilling periodically, with the vehicle's information system providing warnings as the level gets low. Failure to replenish DEF will eventually limit vehicle speed and operation. Only use DEF that meets ISO 22241. Never put diesel fuel into the DEF tank or DEF into the fuel tank, as this will cause severe and costly damage to the emission or fuel system. Keep DEF stored in a cool, dry place and be aware of its shelf life, which is typically one to two years depending on storage conditions. Contaminated or expired DEF can cause damage to the SCR system.

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