When it comes to maintaining your Ford Escape, one crucial aspect that you should never overlook is the transmission fluid. As the lifeblood of your vehicle’s transmission system, this fluid lubricates the moving parts, reduces heat, and ensures smooth gear changes.
Transmission fluid plays a key role in keeping your vehicle’s transmission system healthy and functional. It helps to reduce friction among moving parts, cools the system, and assists in transmitting power from the engine to the drive shaft. Using the correct type and quantity of transmission fluid is critical to the performance and longevity of your car’s transmission system.
Since its introduction in 2000, the Ford Escape has seen multiple redesigns, each time with new or improved specifications, including its transmission system. We will cover each generation individually, focusing on their respective transmission fluid types and capacities.
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Ford Escape Transmission Fluid Capacity
| Transmission | Fluid capacity | Fluid type |
| 2.3L I4 engine with automatic transaxle | 10.2 quarts (9.6L) | Mercon XT-2-QDX ATF |
| 3.0L V6 Duratec with automatic transaxle | 10.2 quarts (9.6L) | Mercon XT-2-QDX ATF |
| Manual transaxle (2WD) | 2.4 quarts (2.3L) | Motorcraft SAE 75W-90 API GL-4 Gear Oil |
| Manual transaxle (4X4) | 2.5 quarts (2.4L) | Motorcraft SAE 75W-90 API GL-4 Gear Oil |
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Ford Escape Transmission Fluid Capacity
For the second-generation Ford Escape, the 6-speed 6F35 automatic transmission was introduced. The fluid recommended for this transmission is Motorcraft MERCON LV ATF. The total fluid capacity for a complete change is about 9 quarts, whereas a drain and refill will require around 4-5 quarts.
| Transmission | Fluid capacity | Fluid type |
| Manual transmission | 2.4 quarts (2.3L) | SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil |
| Automatic transmission | 9.0 quarts (8.5L) | MERCON LV ATF |
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Ford Escape Transmission Fluid Capacity
The third-generation Ford Escape continued using the 6F35 transmission for most models, thus, the fluid type remains the Motorcraft MERCON LV ATF. The fluid capacity stays consistent at around 9 quarts for a complete change, with a drain and refill requiring approximately 4.2 quarts.
| Transmission | Fluid capacity | Fluid type |
| 1.6 Turbo 6F35 6-speed automatic transmission | Total Fill 9 quarts (8.5 liters) Initial Fill 4.2 quarts (4 liters) | Mercon LV |
| 1.5 Turbo 6F35 6-speed automatic transmission | Total Fill 9 quarts (8.5 liters) | Mercon LV |
| 2.0 Turbo 6F35 6-speed automatic transmission | Total Fill 9 quarts (8.5 liters) Initial Fill 4.2 quarts (4 liters) | Mercon LV |
| 2.5 6F35 6-speed automatic transmission | Total Fill 9 quarts (8.5 liters)Initial Fill 4.2 quarts (4 liters) | Mercon LV |
2020 2021 2022 2023 Ford Escape Transmission Fluid Capacity
The fourth-generation Escape introduces the 8-speed 8F24 and 8F35 transmissions. These require the use of the Motorcraft ULV Automatic Transmission Fluid. The total capacity for a fluid change is about 8.5-9 quarts, with a partial drain and refill requiring roughly 4.5-6 quarts.
| Transmission | Fluid capacity | Fluid type |
| 1.5 Turbo 8F24 8-speed automatic transmission | 9 quarts (8.5 liters) | Mercon ULV |
| 2.0 Turbo 8F35 8-speed automatic transmission | 8.5 quarts (8 liters) | Mercon ULV |
| 2.5 HF45 automatic transmission | Total Fill 4.8 quarts | Mercon ULV |
When it comes to choosing the best transmission fluid for your Ford Escape, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. First of all, you need to make sure that you’re using a fluid that is compatible with your vehicle. There are a number of different types of fluids on the market, and not all of them will work with every type of vehicle.
You’ll also want to make sure that you’re using a fluid that is designed for high performance. This is especially important if you’re driving in hot weather or if you do a lot of stop-and-go driving.
How to Check and Change Transmission Fluid
Checking and changing the transmission fluid in your Ford Escape is an important part of routine maintenance that can extend the life of your vehicle. Here’s how to do it:
Checking the Transmission Fluid:
- Warm up the Vehicle: Start your car and allow it to warm up to operating temperature. This helps to ensure that the fluid will be at its normal level.
- Park on a Level Surface: Once your car is warm, park it on a level surface and set the parking brake. This ensures that the fluid is evenly distributed in the transmission pan.
- Shift through the Gears: With your foot on the brake, shift the transmission through all the gears, pausing for a few seconds in each gear. This helps to circulate the fluid throughout the transmission.
- Check the Fluid Level: Locate the transmission fluid dipstick under the hood, usually near the back of the engine. Pull it out, wipe it clean with a lint-free rag, reinsert it fully, then remove it again to check the level. The fluid should be between the two marks or in the crosshatched area on the dipstick.
- Check the Fluid Condition: While checking the fluid level, also take a moment to inspect the condition of the fluid. It should be red or pink in color, not too dark, and should not have a burnt smell. If the fluid is very dark or smells burnt, it may need to be changed.
Changing the Transmission Fluid
- Drain the Fluid: Put on safety goggles and gloves. Position a drain pan beneath the transmission pan and carefully remove the drain plug or pan bolts to allow the fluid to drain out. Be careful as the fluid may be hot.
- Remove and Clean the Pan: Once the fluid is drained, remove the transmission pan completely and clean it thoroughly, removing any old fluid and any metal shavings or debris. Replace the filter and pan gasket if your vehicle has them and they’re due for replacement.
- Reinstall the Pan: After cleaning, reinstall the transmission pan and tighten the bolts to the torque specified in your vehicle’s manual.
- Refill with New Fluid: Using a funnel to avoid spills, add the new transmission fluid through the dipstick tube. Add the quantity of fluid specified in your owner’s manual, usually 3 to 5 quarts.
- Check the Fluid Level: Start the vehicle and let it warm up, then check the fluid level as described above. Add more fluid if necessary, but be careful not to overfill.
Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions for your model and follow all safety precautions when working on your vehicle. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, a professional mechanic can perform this service for you.
How Much Does It Cost To Change The Transmission Fluid In Ford Escape?
The cost of changing the transmission fluid in a Ford Escape can vary widely, depending on factors such as the model year, the region or city where you live, whether you take your vehicle to a dealership or an independent mechanic, and the exact services performed.
The average cost for a Ford Escape transmission fluid change could range from $150 to $300. This cost typically includes the transmission fluid itself, a new transmission filter if your vehicle has one, a new pan gasket if applicable, and labor.
Also, remember that while it might be tempting to choose the cheapest option, it’s crucial to ensure that the mechanic you select is reputable and experienced. Poorly done transmission work can lead to more significant, more expensive problems down the line.
How Often Should You Change The Transmission Fluid In A Ford Escape?
Transmission fluid change intervals can vary based on the model year, the specific transmission, and the type of use the vehicle sees. However, as a general guideline, many manufacturers recommend changing the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 45,000 miles.
For the Ford Escape, refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the most accurate information. Some newer models equipped with “lifetime” transmission fluid may suggest that under normal driving conditions, the transmission fluid does not need to be changed.
However, many mechanics and experts suggest a more conservative approach for the longevity of your transmission, which might mean changing the fluid more frequently, especially if the vehicle is often used in severe driving conditions like towing, off-roading, or extensive stop-and-go traffic.
Remember, proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and reliability of your vehicle. If you’re ever unsure about when to perform certain maintenance tasks, consult with a trusted professional mechanic or your local dealership.
