⚙️Transmission Fluid
Ford Taurus Transmission Fluid
Find the correct transmission fluid type and capacity for your Ford Taurus. Covers automatic and manual transmissions for all years.
Quick Answer
The Ford Taurus transmission fluid type depends on your transmission — automatic models typically use ATF WS, Dexron, or manufacturer-specific fluid. Manual transmissions use gear oil. See the year breakdown below.
2014-2019
2014-2019Automatic Fluid TypeATF WS, Dexron VI, or manufacturer-specific (varies)
Auto Drain & Fill3.5 - 4.0 quarts
Auto Total Capacity7.0 - 12.0 quarts
Manual Fluid Type75W-90 gear oil or MTF (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
2008-2013
2008-2013Automatic Fluid TypeDexron III/VI or manufacturer-specific ATF
Auto Drain & Fill3.0 - 4.0 quarts
Auto Total Capacity7.0 - 12.0 quarts
Manual Fluid Type75W-90 gear oil
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
2002-2007
2002-2007Automatic Fluid TypeDexron III/VI or manufacturer-specific ATF
Auto Drain & Fill3.0 - 4.0 quarts
Auto Total Capacity7.0 - 12.0 quarts
Manual Fluid Type75W-90 gear oil
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
1996-2001
1996-2001Automatic Fluid TypeDexron III/VI or manufacturer-specific ATF
Auto Drain & Fill3.0 - 4.0 quarts
Auto Total Capacity7.0 - 12.0 quarts
Manual Fluid Type75W-90 gear oil
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
1990-1995
1990-1995Automatic Fluid TypeDexron III/VI or manufacturer-specific ATF
Auto Drain & Fill3.0 - 4.0 quarts
Auto Total Capacity7.0 - 12.0 quarts
Manual Fluid Type75W-90 gear oil
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
1986-1989
1986-1989Automatic Fluid TypeDexron III/VI or manufacturer-specific ATF
Auto Drain & Fill3.0 - 4.0 quarts
Auto Total Capacity7.0 - 12.0 quarts
Manual Fluid Type75W-90 gear oil
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
Frequently Asked Questions
- What transmission fluid does a Ford Taurus use?
- The Ford Taurus transmission fluid type depends on the year and transmission. Automatic transmissions use ATF WS, Dexron VI, or manufacturer-specific fluid. Manual transmissions use 75W-90 gear oil. See below for your specific year.
- How much transmission fluid does a Ford Taurus take?
- A drain-and-fill on the Ford Taurus 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 Taurus?
- Change your Ford Taurus 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 Taurus have a transmission dipstick?
- Many 2010+ Ford Taurus 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.