2025 International MV Fluid Type Specifications

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity (approximate)
Engine Oil	API CK-4 / FA-4 (Application Dependent)	28-36 Quarts
Engine Coolant	Extended Life Coolant (ELC) - OAT Type, Red/Pink	40-50 Quarts
Transmission Fluid	Eaton PS-386 (Manual) / Allison TES-295 or TES-668 (Automatic)	Varies by Model
Front Differential	SAE 80W-90, API GL-5	Varies by Axle
Rear Differential	SAE 80W-90, API GL-5	Varies by Axle
Brake Fluid	DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (verify in owner's manual)	Varies
Power Steering	Eaton PS-164 Rev 7 or equivalent	Varies
Washer Fluid	Commercial Grade Windshield Washer Fluid	1-2 Gallons
DEF	ISO 22241 / API AUS 32	5-15 Gallons

Engine Oil

For the 2025 International MV, engine oil specifications are critical for longevity and performance, especially given the diverse engine options (e.g., Cummins B-series, Navistar A26). The primary specifications will be API CK-4 and/or API FA-4, with the choice depending on the specific engine and its emissions system.

• API CK-4: This is a heavy-duty engine oil designed for engines with or without exhaust aftertreatment systems. It offers excellent protection against oxidation, wear, and soot accumulation.
• API FA-4: This is a lower viscosity, fuel-efficient heavy-duty engine oil primarily specified for newer engines, often those designed to meet GHG17 (Greenhouse Gas 2017) emissions standards. It is not backward compatible with all engines that specify CK-4, so always verify in your owner's manual.

Viscosity: Common viscosities will include SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40 for CK-4, and potentially 5W-30 or 5W-40 for FA-4 applications. Always refer to your specific engine's oil pan sticker or owner's manual for the precise viscosity and specification.

Intervals: Oil change intervals for heavy-duty trucks can vary significantly based on duty cycle, oil analysis results, and engine manufacturer recommendations. Typically, these can range from 15,000 to 50,000 miles or more with oil sampling programs. Consult your owner's manual and consider oil analysis for optimal drain intervals.

Pitfalls: Never use an FA-4 oil in an engine that is not explicitly approved for it, as it may lead to insufficient wear protection. Conversely, using a heavier CK-4 oil in an FA-4 specified engine may negate fuel economy benefits and potentially impact emissions system performance.

Engine Coolant

The 2025 International MV typically utilizes an Extended Life Coolant (ELC), which is an Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant, usually red or pink in color. This type of coolant provides long-lasting protection against corrosion, cavitation, and freezing/boiling.

Specification: Look for coolants meeting specifications such as ASTM D6210 or those approved by your specific engine manufacturer (e.g., Cummins CES 14603 for Cummins engines or Navistar MPAPS B-Type II for Navistar engines). Always use a fully formulated ELC coolant that is silicate-free, nitrite-free, and phosphate-free.

Capacity: Coolant capacities can range from 40 to 50 quarts or more, depending on the chassis and cooling system design.

Intervals: ELC coolants typically have a service life of 600,000 miles, 12,000 hours, or 6 years, whichever comes first, with proper periodic testing and extender addition.

Pitfalls: Crucially, never mix OAT coolants with older Conventional or Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants. Mixing can lead to silicate dropout, gel formation, and a significant reduction in corrosion protection, potentially causing severe damage to the cooling system. If you are unsure of the existing coolant type, it is best to perform a complete flush and refill.

Transmission Fluid

The 2025 International MV can be equipped with various transmissions, including manual and automatic options, each requiring specific fluids.

• Manual Transmissions (e.g., Eaton Fuller): For Eaton manual transmissions, the recommended fluid is typically Eaton PS-386, which is a synthetic transmission lubricant designed for extended drain intervals and improved efficiency. Always verify the specific Eaton fluid requirement for your transmission model in the owner's manual.

• Automatic Transmissions (e.g., Allison): Allison automatic transmissions in the MV series will generally require fluids meeting Allison TES-295 or the newer Allison TES-668 specification. TES-295 is a synthetic fluid known for its extended drain capabilities and superior performance. TES-668 is a next-generation fluid offering enhanced durability and performance characteristics for newer Allison transmissions. Verify the exact specification in your owner's manual or on the transmission data plate.

Intervals: Transmission fluid change intervals vary widely. For Eaton PS-386, intervals can be as long as 500,000 miles. Allison TES-295/TES-668 fluids also offer extended drain intervals, often ranging from 150,000 to 300,000 miles or more, depending on duty cycle and fluid analysis. Always adhere to the manufacturer's schedule.

Pitfalls: Using incorrect transmission fluid can lead to premature wear, poor shifting, overheating, and catastrophic failure. Never substitute with universal ATF products or lower-spec fluids.

Differential Fluid (Front and Rear)

The International MV typically uses heavy-duty drive axles requiring specific gear oils for optimal protection and longevity.

Specification: For both front (if applicable) and rear differentials, a SAE 80W-90, API GL-5 gear oil is a common specification. Some applications might call for SAE 85W-140 in severe service or high-temperature environments. Always consult the axle manufacturer's (e.g., Dana, Meritor) specifications and your vehicle's owner's manual.

Capacity: Differential capacities vary greatly depending on the axle model and ratio. Refer to your owner's manual or the axle manufacturer's service information.

Intervals: Differential fluid change intervals can range from 100,000 to 250,000 miles, or more, depending on the duty cycle and manufacturer recommendations. Severe service may necessitate shorter intervals.

Pitfalls: Always use an API GL-5 rated gear oil for hypoid gears. Do not use an API GL-4 fluid in an application requiring GL-5, as it will not provide adequate protection for the extreme pressures found in modern differentials. Some limited-slip differentials may require a specific additive, but this is less common in heavy-duty truck applications.

Brake Fluid

Commercial vehicles like the 2025 International MV typically utilize hydraulic brake systems requiring high-performance brake fluid.

Specification: Most systems will specify DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid. DOT 4 is a glycol-ether-based fluid suitable for most heavy-duty applications. DOT 5.1 is also glycol-ether based but has a higher wet and dry boiling point, offering enhanced performance, especially for vehicles subjected to heavy braking or towing. Crucially, DOT 5.0 (silicone-based) is not compatible with DOT 3, DOT 4, or DOT 5.1 fluids and should never be interchanged. Always verify the exact requirement in your owner's manual.

Intervals: Brake fluid should be inspected regularly and typically replaced every 2-3 years, or as recommended by the manufacturer, due to its hygroscopic nature (it absorbs moisture over time, reducing its boiling point).

Pitfalls: Using the wrong type of brake fluid can lead to compromised braking performance, corrosion of internal brake components, and seal degradation. Never re-use old brake fluid from an open container, as it will have absorbed moisture.

Power Steering Fluid

For the 2025 International MV, the power steering system will require a heavy-duty hydraulic fluid.

Specification: A common specification for various power steering systems (e.g., those by Eaton) is Eaton PS-164 Rev 7 or an equivalent high-quality hydraulic steering fluid. Some systems may specify an automatic transmission fluid (ATF), but this is less common for dedicated heavy-duty power steering systems. Always check your owner's manual or the power steering pump reservoir for the exact fluid type.

Intervals: Power steering fluid is often considered a "lifetime" fluid by some manufacturers, but regular inspection for contamination and leaks is recommended. Changing the fluid every 100,000 to 150,000 miles can help extend the life of the power steering pump and other components.

Pitfalls: Using standard ATF or a fluid not meeting manufacturer specifications can lead to increased wear on the pump and steering gear, fluid overheating, and potential system failure.

Washer Fluid

Windshield washer fluid for the 2025 International MV is a straightforward requirement.

Specification: Use a high-quality, commercial-grade windshield washer fluid suitable for all seasons. Many commercial fluids contain detergents and de-icers for improved cleaning performance in various weather conditions. Avoid using plain water, especially in cold climates, as it can freeze and damage the washer system.

Intervals: Top up as needed. No specific change interval.

Pitfalls: In colder climates, using a washer fluid without adequate freeze protection can result in frozen lines or a damaged reservoir.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

For diesel-powered 2025 International MV trucks equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems, Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is essential for emissions compliance.

Specification: DEF must meet the ISO 22241 standard, also known as API AUS 32. This ensures the fluid is a high-purity, 32.5% urea solution necessary for the SCR system to function correctly. Only use DEF that is clearly labeled with the ISO 22241 standard.

Capacity: DEF tank capacities can range from 5 to 15 gallons or more, depending on the truck configuration.

Intervals: DEF is consumed continually while the engine is running. The refill interval depends on usage and tank size, but the DEF gauge will indicate when a refill is needed.

Pitfalls: Never put anything other than ISO 22241 DEF into the DEF tank. Contaminating the DEF system with diesel fuel, coolant, or any other fluid will cause severe and costly damage to the SCR system. Similarly, using non-compliant or expired DEF can also lead to SCR system malfunctions and engine derating. Store DEF properly as per manufacturer recommendations to prevent contamination and degradation.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.