2016 Freightliner M2 106 Fluid Specs & Capacities

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	API CK-4 15W-40, 10W-30	12-45 quarts (verify by engine)
Engine Coolant	OAT or NOAT ELC	28-52 quarts (verify by engine & radiator)
Automatic Transmission Fluid	Allison TES-295, TES-389	~19-29 quarts
Manual Transmission Fluid	SAE 50, Eaton PS-386/PS-164	~9-28 pints
Rear Differential	75W-90, 80W-140	~16-46 pints
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 / DOT 4	N/A (hydraulic over air)
Power Steering Fluid	ATF (Dexron III/VI)	~3-4 quarts
Windshield Washer Fluid	-	~2 gallons
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)	ISO 22241	6-23 gallons

Engine Oil

The 2016 Freightliner M2 106 was available with several diesel engines, primarily from Cummins and Detroit Diesel. The most common specification is a heavy-duty engine oil meeting API Service Category CK-4.

• Viscosity: The standard and most recommended viscosity is 15W-40. For colder climates, 10W-30 may be permissible. Synthetic blends and full synthetics offer improved protection and potentially longer drain intervals.
• Specification: Look for oils that meet Cummins CES 20086 or Detroit Diesel DFS 93K222 standards. Using an oil that meets these specs ensures it has been tested to provide the necessary protection against soot, wear, and oxidation for these specific engines.
• Capacity: Engine oil capacity varies significantly based on the installed engine. The Cummins ISB6.7 can hold around 12 quarts, while the larger Detroit DD13 may require up to 45 quarts. Always verify the exact capacity in your owner's manual or OEM service information and use the dipstick to ensure a proper fill.

Engine Coolant

Proper coolant is critical for preventing corrosion and managing heat in a heavy-duty diesel engine. For the M2 106, an Extended Life Coolant (ELC) is required. These are typically Organic Acid Technology (OAT) or Nitrited Organic Acid Technology (NOAT) formulations.

• Type/Spec: Use a nitrite-free OAT ELC meeting Cummins CES 14603 or a NOAT ELC meeting Detroit Diesel DFS 93K217. These coolants are designed for long service intervals (up to 600,000 miles or more) but should never be mixed with conventional, silicate-based coolants (the common green stuff). Mixing chemistries can cause the coolant to gel, leading to blockages and catastrophic engine overheating.
• Capacity: Cooling system capacity can range from 28 to over 52 quarts depending on the engine and radiator size.

Transmission Fluid

Automatic Transmission

Most M2 106 trucks with an automatic are equipped with an Allison transmission.

• Type/Spec: It is critical to use an approved Allison TES-295 or TES-389 synthetic fluid. These fluids provide superior thermal stability and clutch performance. Using a generic "universal" ATF can lead to shift problems and premature transmission failure.
• Capacity: A typical service requires 19 quarts, while a complete overhaul may need up to 29 quarts.

Manual Transmission

Manual transmissions were offered from Eaton and Meritor.

• Type/Spec: Use a fluid meeting Eaton PS-386 or PS-164 (for newer transmissions). In many cases, a high-quality SAE 50 synthetic transmission fluid is the correct choice.
• Capacity: Varies by model, from approximately 9 pints to as much as 28 pints. Verify the specific requirement for your transmission.

Rear Differential

• Type/Spec: Most applications use a SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. For heavy-haul or severe-duty applications, a heavier SAE 80W-140 may be specified. Always check if the oil meets API GL-5 and is approved for use by the axle manufacturer (e.g., Meritor or Dana).
• Capacity: Can range from 16 to over 46 pints depending on the axle model.

Brake Fluid

The M2 106 typically uses an air brake system. However, models equipped with hydraulic brakes (less common) require DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid

• Type/Spec: The power steering system generally uses Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). A fluid meeting Dexron III or Dexron VI specifications is a common and safe choice.
• Capacity: The system usually holds between 3 and 4 quarts.

Windshield Washer Fluid

Use any standard blue winter/summer windshield washer fluid. The reservoir typically holds around 2 gallons.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

For emissions control, the M2 106 requires Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).

• Type/Spec: Use DEF that is API certified and meets the ISO 22241 standard. This ensures the proper purity and urea concentration (32.5%). Using non-compliant fluid can damage the expensive Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system.
• Capacity: The DEF tank size can be anywhere from 6 to 23 gallons.

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