OEM-spec transmission fluid
Manufacturer-specified ATF (check owner's manual) fluid search for Ford Explorer.
Transmission service should always match exact fluid specification.
Check Price and Fitment⚙️Transmission Fluid
Ford Explorer Transmission Fluid
Find the correct transmission fluid type and capacity for your Ford Explorer. Covers automatic and manual transmissions for all years.
Factory Manual ConfirmationTransmission Fluid
Ford Explorer Transmission Fluid
The Ford Explorer transmission fluid type depends on your transmission — automatic models require the manufacturer-specified automatic transmission fluid. Manual transmissions use manufacturer-specified manual transmission fluid. See the year breakdown below.
Fluid type and capacity can change by engine, drivetrain, and transmission. Verify the exact branch before filling anything.
Exact Vehicle Check
Use the archive navigator when you need the exact engine, trim, or production-branch manual instead of a broad year-range summary.
2013-2018
Representative 2013 manual branch for 2013-2018
Application and ID
Fusion AWD L4-2.0L Turbo
Repair and Diagnosis: Application and ID — 2013 Ford Fusion AWD L4-2.0L Turbo Service Manual | Operation CHARM Operation CHARM : Car repair manuals for everyone. Home >> Ford >> 2013 >...
Open factory section →Application and ID
Fusion FWD L4-1.6L Turbo
Repair and Diagnosis: Application and ID — 2013 Ford Fusion FWD L4-1.6L Turbo Service Manual | Operation CHARM Operation CHARM : Car repair manuals for everyone. Home >> Ford >> 2013 >...
Open factory section →2007-2012
Representative 2007 manual branch for 2007-2012
A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC )
Five Hundred 2WD V6-3.0L VIN 1
A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC ) — 2007 Ford Five Hundred 2WD V6-3.0L VIN 1 Service Manual | Operation CHARM Operation CHARM : Car repair manuals for everyone. Home >> Ford >> 20...
Open factory section →A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC )
Crown Victoria V8-4.6L VIN V Flex Fuel
A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC ) — 2007 Ford Crown Victoria V8-4.6L VIN V Flex Fuel Service Manual | Operation CHARM Operation CHARM : Car repair manuals for everyone. Home >> Fo...
Open factory section →2019-2024
2019-2024Automatic Fluid TypeManufacturer-specified ATF (check owner's manual)
Auto Drain & Fill3.5 - 4.0 quarts
Auto Total Capacity7.0 - 12.0 quarts
Manual Fluid TypeManufacturer-specified manual transmission fluid (if equipped)
Manual Capacity2.0 - 3.0 quarts
Change Interval60,000 - 100,000 miles (auto), 30,000 - 60,000 (manual)
Notes
- →Use ONLY the manufacturer-specified fluid — wrong ATF can damage the transmission
- →Check transmission fluid level with engine running and at operating temperature
- →Many modern transmissions are "sealed" — fluid checks require removing a fill plug underneath
- →Dark, burnt-smelling fluid indicates overheating — change immediately
2013-2018
2013-2018Automatic Fluid TypeManufacturer-specified ATF (check owner's manual)
Auto Drain & Fill3.5 - 4.0 quarts
Auto Total Capacity7.0 - 12.0 quarts
Manual Fluid TypeManufacturer-specified manual transmission fluid (if equipped)
Manual Capacity2.0 - 3.0 quarts
Change Interval60,000 - 100,000 miles (auto), 30,000 - 60,000 (manual)
Notes
- →Use ONLY the manufacturer-specified fluid — wrong ATF can damage the transmission
- →Check transmission fluid level with engine running and at operating temperature
- →Many modern transmissions are "sealed" — fluid checks require removing a fill plug underneath
- →Dark, burnt-smelling fluid indicates overheating — change immediately
2007-2012
2007-2012Automatic Fluid TypeManufacturer-specified ATF (check owner's manual)
Auto Drain & Fill3.0 - 4.0 quarts
Auto Total Capacity7.0 - 12.0 quarts
Manual Fluid TypeManufacturer-specified manual transmission fluid
Manual Capacity2.0 - 3.0 quarts
Change Interval30,000 - 60,000 miles
Notes
- →Use ONLY the manufacturer-specified fluid — wrong ATF can damage the transmission
- →Check transmission fluid level with engine running and at operating temperature
- →Dark, burnt-smelling fluid indicates overheating — change immediately
2001-2006
2001-2006Automatic Fluid TypeManufacturer-specified ATF (check owner's manual)
Auto Drain & Fill3.0 - 4.0 quarts
Auto Total Capacity7.0 - 12.0 quarts
Manual Fluid TypeManufacturer-specified manual transmission fluid
Manual Capacity2.0 - 3.0 quarts
Change Interval30,000 - 60,000 miles
Notes
- →Use ONLY the manufacturer-specified fluid — wrong ATF can damage the transmission
- →Check transmission fluid level with engine running and at operating temperature
- →Dark, burnt-smelling fluid indicates overheating — change immediately
1995-2000
1995-2000Automatic Fluid TypeManufacturer-specified ATF (check owner's manual)
Auto Drain & Fill3.0 - 4.0 quarts
Auto Total Capacity7.0 - 12.0 quarts
Manual Fluid TypeManufacturer-specified manual transmission fluid
Manual Capacity2.0 - 3.0 quarts
Change Interval30,000 - 60,000 miles
Notes
- →Use ONLY the manufacturer-specified fluid — wrong ATF can damage the transmission
- →Check transmission fluid level with engine running and at operating temperature
- →Dark, burnt-smelling fluid indicates overheating — change immediately
1991-1994
1991-1994Automatic Fluid TypeManufacturer-specified ATF (check owner's manual)
Auto Drain & Fill3.0 - 4.0 quarts
Auto Total Capacity7.0 - 12.0 quarts
Manual Fluid TypeManufacturer-specified manual transmission fluid
Manual Capacity2.0 - 3.0 quarts
Change Interval30,000 - 60,000 miles
Notes
- →Use ONLY the manufacturer-specified fluid — wrong ATF can damage the transmission
- →Check transmission fluid level with engine running and at operating temperature
- →Dark, burnt-smelling fluid indicates overheating — change immediately
Ready to BuyFitment-first picks for Ford Explorer
Buy Parts and Tools for This Job
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Spec Snapshot
- Automatic Fluid Type
- Manufacturer-specified ATF (check owner's manual)
- Manual Fluid Type
- Manufacturer-specified manual transmission fluid (if equipped)
- Auto Drain & Fill
- 3.5 - 4.0 quarts
Fluid transfer pump
Helpful for sealed transmissions with bottom-fill service.
Prevents under-fill and spill-heavy refills.
Check Price and FitmentPan gasket and filter kit
Complete service kit where pan filters are replaceable.
A proper service kit helps avoid repeat labor.
Check Price and FitmentFluid transfer pump
Helpful for sealed transmissions and bottom-fill service.
A pump keeps refill clean and reduces the chance of under-fill.
Check Price and FitmentShop towels and pan gasket supplies
Keep the service area clean and the pan sealed.
Transmission service is easier when cleanup gear is already on hand.
Check Price and FitmentBefore you buy, sanity-check the repair quote
If your shop quote looks high, run it through Quote Shield to catch overpricing before checkout.
Maintenance Kit
Recommended supplies and tools for this job.
⚙️Shop →
Transmission Fluid
Must match the specific ATF or CVT spec for your car.
⚓Shop →
Fluid Transfer Pump
Crucial for filling "sealed" transmissions from below.
🕸️Shop →
Transmission Filter
Recommended when performing a full pan service.
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Drain Plug Washer
Prevents seepage after a drain-and-fill service.
🧻Shop →
Shop Towels
Cleanup gear for ATF spills and pan work.
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Project Essentials
Basic tool sets, gloves, and cleaning supplies for your Ford Explorer.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What transmission fluid does a Ford Explorer use?
- The Ford Explorer transmission fluid type depends on the year and transmission. Automatic transmissions require the manufacturer-recommended ATF — using the wrong type can cause shifting problems or damage. Manual transmissions use manufacturer-specified manual transmission fluid. See below for your specific year.
- How much transmission fluid does a Ford Explorer take?
- A drain-and-fill on the Ford Explorer automatic transmission typically takes 3.5-4.0 quarts. The total system capacity is 7-12 quarts. For a complete fluid exchange, you'll need the full capacity amount.
- How often should I change transmission fluid in my Ford Explorer?
- Change your Ford Explorer automatic transmission fluid every 60,000-100,000 miles under normal conditions. For severe duty (towing, mountain driving, hot climates), change every 30,000-60,000 miles.
- Does the Ford Explorer have a transmission dipstick?
- Many 2010+ Ford Explorer models have sealed transmissions with no dipstick. Fluid level is checked via a fill plug underneath the vehicle. Older models typically have a traditional dipstick under the hood.
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