Do Fords need special coolant?

Yes. Ford vehicles require coolant that meets Ford’s official specifications; use OEM-approved coolant (such as Motorcraft) or an approved equivalent that specifically meets WSS-M97B44-D or WSS-M97B51-A1, and avoid mixing with non-approved formulas.

Ford's cooling systems rely on corrosion inhibitors and formulations tailored to Ford engines and aluminum components. Using an incompatible coolant can cause deposits, corrosion, leaks, overheating, and may affect warranties. This article explains why Ford-specific coolant matters, how to identify the right type, and how to maintain the cooling system properly.

What makes Ford coolant different?

Ford uses two primary families of coolant that are approved for its engines. The key is to choose a coolant that explicitly meets Ford’s official specifications to ensure proper protection and compatibility with Ford engines and cooling system components.

Key specifications to look for

Before you buy, check the label on the coolant bottle or your owner’s manual for one of Ford’s approved specifications. The two main Ford-approved specs are:

• WSS-M97B44-D — Green, traditional/ inorganic-salt-based coolant used on older Ford engines and some current applications.


• WSS-M97B51-A1 — Orange, Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant used on many newer Ford engines.

Conclusion: Always use a coolant that meets either WSS-M97B44-D or WSS-M97B51-A1, or an OEM-approved equivalent. Do not substitute with coolants that don’t explicitly carry one of these Ford specifications, and avoid mixing different specification types unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it.

How to choose the right coolant for your Ford

Choosing the wrong coolant can lead to corrosion, deposits, and cooling-system failures. Follow Ford’s guidance to ensure compatibility with your model and year.

• Look for coolant labeled to meet Ford WSS-M97B44-D or WSS-M97B51-A1, or an OEM-approved equivalent from Ford or a recognized supplier.


• Use premixed 50/50 coolant if available; if you buy concentrate, mix with distilled water as directed to achieve the correct freezing and boiling protection and inhibitor balance.


• Avoid universal or “all makes” coolants unless the label explicitly states compatibility with Ford specifications.

Conclusion: Verifying the exact Ford specification for your vehicle and using an approved coolant helps protect the engine, radiator, and aluminum components while preserving warranty coverage.

Maintenance and service tips for Ford cooling systems

Regular maintenance of the cooling system is essential to prevent overheating and costly repairs. Here are practical guidelines you can follow with most Ford models.

• Check the owner’s manual for the recommended coolant change interval; many modern Ford vehicles use long-life coolant, typically around 5 years or 100,000 miles, but intervals vary by model.


• If you need to change coolant from one specification to another (for example, green to orange), perform a complete flush to remove all residual inhibitors and avoid cross-contamination.


• When refilling, ensure proper bleeding of air from the system if your model requires it; never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot.


• Inspect hoses, clamps, and the radiator for signs of wear, leaks, or damage during service intervals and replace components as needed.

Conclusion: Following the recommended maintenance schedule and using the correct Ford-approved coolant will help maintain optimal engine temperatures and prolong the life of the cooling system.

Color, compatibility, and common pitfalls

Color alone is not a reliable guide to compatibility. Ford uses both green and orange/or pink long-life coolants, depending on the model and year, but you must verify the exact specification rather than relying on color alone.

• Green coolants often align with WSS-M97B44-D, while orange/pink coolants align with WSS-M97B51-A1; however, always confirm the specification on the label or in the manual.


• Do not mix green and orange coolants unless the manufacturer explicitly states it is safe to do so for your exact model; if changing color/spec, perform a full system flush.


• Always choose coolant products that explicitly state Ford compatibility or meet Ford’s specification—otherwise you risk improper protection and corrosion risk.

Conclusion: The safest approach is to use an OEM-approved Ford coolant that carries one of the Ford specifications and to avoid mixing different chemistries unless instructed by Ford for your vehicle.

Summary

For Fords, the coolant is not a generic product. Ford requires coolant that meets specific Ford specifications—primarily WSS-M97B44-D or WSS-M97B51-A1—or an OEM-approved equivalent. Always verify the exact specification in your owner’s manual or with a dealership, use the correct type (not a universal coolant), and follow proper mixing and bleeding procedures. Regular maintenance and proper coolant selection protect engines, aluminum components, and cooling systems, helping prevent overheating and costly repairs.

Does Ford require special coolant?

Every car manufacturer, including Ford has developed its own coolant or requires a specific coolant that is unique to individual years and models. There are several colors of coolants to help distinguish each including green, blue, yellow, purple red, and orange.

Can I use Prestone coolant in my Ford?

Yes, you can use Prestone coolant in your Ford. Prestone offers universal coolants that are guaranteed to be compatible with all vehicles, including Ford, and can be mixed with any existing coolant. They also have specific American Vehicle formulas (Orange) that are designed for Ford vehicles from 2002 and newer. 
This video explains the different types of Prestone coolants and their compatibility with various vehicles: 54sPrestone OfficialYouTube · Jul 16, 2021
Prestone options for your Ford

• Universal Coolant: This is a safe option for any Ford, regardless of model year or current coolant color. 
  • It is safe to mix with whatever coolant is already in your system. 
  • It will not void your engine's warranty. 
• American Vehicles (Orange) Formula: This is a specific formula that is guaranteed to work with Ford vehicles from 2002 and newer. 
  • This orange coolant is designed to meet the specific requirements of these vehicles. 

Important considerations

• Check your owner's manual: Always consult your Ford owner's manual to confirm the specific coolant specifications and recommendations for your vehicle. 
• Avoid mixing colors unless specified: While Prestone's universal coolants are compatible, it's best to avoid mixing different colors of coolant unless the product specifically states it is safe to do so, to prevent potential damage. 

This video explains how to choose the right coolant for your Ford vehicle, especially if it's a newer model: 56sKent ForrestYouTube · Jan 15, 2023

What color is Ford's antifreeze?

Ford coolant has been orange in older models and is now a yellow (sometimes appearing lime green) coolant for newer vehicles, starting around late 2018 or early 2019. The new yellow coolant is designed to replace the older orange coolant and is backwards compatible, though it's often recommended to do a full flush for optimal performance and protection.
 
Coolant colors and details

• Orange: This was the standard coolant for many Ford vehicles from approximately 2011 to 2018. It's an ethylene glycol-based, long-life coolant that may sometimes appear pinkish. 
• Yellow: This is the newer, recommended coolant. It is also known as "P-OAT" and has a longer service interval than the orange coolant. 
  • Some users report it has a slight green tint, but it is officially labeled as yellow. 
  • It is backwards compatible with the older orange coolant. 
  • It is recommended to use distilled water when mixing with the new yellow coolant. 

Important considerations

• Mixing: While the new yellow coolant is designed to be compatible with the old orange coolant, it is best practice to perform a full system flush and refill to get the most benefit from the newer formula and ensure proper protection, especially for newer vehicles. 
• Warranty: Ford recommends using the correct coolant to avoid potential damage to the engine or cooling system, which may not be covered by the vehicle's warranty. 
• Discontinued orange coolant: Ford has officially discontinued the orange coolant, but some aftermarket brands may still offer it. 
• Correct specification: Always check your vehicle's owner's manual for the specific Ford specification your vehicle requires (e.g., WSS-M97B44-D or WSS-M97B44-D2 for the orange coolant) to ensure you are using the correct product, especially when adding a top-off. 

Can I use universal coolant in my Ford?

The "universal" coolants may not be compatible with Ford's recommended supplemental coolant additive, Motorcraft® Diesel Cooling System Additive, VC-8, specified for use in diesel engine-equipped vehicles factory- filled with either Motorcraft® Premium Antifreeze/Coolant (ESE-M97B44-A) or Motorcraft® Gold Antifreeze/ ...