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How big is the gas tank on a Ford van?

The size of a Ford van’s gas tank varies by model and configuration. In most cases, the Transit full‑size van carries about 25 gallons of fuel, while the smaller Transit Connect holds roughly 16 gallons. Exact capacity depends on year, engine, wheelbase, and roof height, so check your vehicle’s spec sheet for a precise figure.


This article explains the typical tank sizes across Ford’s current van lineup and how to determine the exact capacity for a specific vehicle. By examining common configurations, readers can gauge refueling needs and planning for long trips or fleet use.


Ford Transit: the full-size van


For most gasoline-powered Transits, the standard fuel tank is about 25 gallons (94 liters). Variations in wheelbase and roof height can cause small differences in capacity, but 25 gallons is the typical baseline.



  • Standard wheelbase, low‑roof models: around 25 gallons.

  • Long‑wheelbase or high‑roof models: generally near 25 gallons, with a practical range around 23–28 gallons depending on year and options.

  • Diesel versions (where available): usually similar in capacity to gasoline variants; verify the exact spec for your build.


In practice, most Transit owners will see a roughly 25‑gallon tank, which supports extended trips between fill‑ups and provides a predictable range for planning.


Ford Transit Connect: compact van


The Transit Connect carries a smaller tank, typically around 16 gallons, reflecting its lighter footprint and different engine options.



  • Gasoline engines: about 15.6–16 gallons (59–61 liters).

  • Diesel or alternative engines (where offered): similar capacity, around 16 gallons.


The smaller capacity means a shorter driving range between fills, making fuel planning more important for longer commutes or road trips.


Older Ford vans and other variations


Older models in the Ford van family, such as the E-Series, show wider variation in tank sizes due to a broader range of body lengths, configurations, and optional fuel tanks.



  • Short to mid wheelbase with standard configurations: typically in the mid‑20s to low‑30s gallons.

  • Longer wheelbase or specialty configurations: can approach 30–40 gallons in some setups.


Because these figures can differ significantly by year and trim, owners of older vans should consult the specific vehicle’s manual or VIN-based spec sheet for exact capacity.


How to find the exact tank size for your van


To determine the precise fuel-tank capacity for your exact vehicle, use these steps:



  1. Check the owner’s manual or the official Ford specification sheet for your model year and trim.

  2. Look up your VIN to pull the original equipment specifications from Ford’s database or trusted automotive sources.

  3. Ask a Ford dealer or service department for the official tank capacity for your configuration.

  4. If you have a shop manual, verify the fuel-tank size listed under Specifications.


Knowing the exact capacity helps with planning fuel stops, estimating range, and budgeting for fleet operations.


Why tank size matters


Tank size directly affects driving range, refueling frequency, and trip planning. Fleet managers especially weigh tank capacity when designing routes and scheduling refueling stops, while private owners consider it for long road trips and avoidance of frequent fills.


Summary


In today’s Ford van lineup, you’ll find roughly 25 gallons for most Transit full‑size configurations, about 16 gallons for the Transit Connect, and a broader range for older E-Series models. Always verify the exact capacity for your specific build using the manual, VIN lookup, or a dealer, as small differences can influence range and fueling plans.

How big is the fuel tank on a Ford Transit van?


The standard fuel tank size for a Ford Transit van is 25 gallons, but an optional, larger 31-gallon tank is available for extended range. Newer models with the 3.5L PFDi V6 engine have a standard 25-gallon tank, with an available extended range option of 31 gallons.
 
Standard vs. optional

  • Standard: A 25-gallon fuel tank comes standard on most Ford Transit models. 
  • Optional: A larger 31-gallon fuel tank is available as an option for those who need more range between fill-ups. 

Model-specific variations
  • 2024-2025 Models: The standard tank is 25 gallons, with an available 31-gallon extended range tank. 
  • Older models: Ford has also offered various tank sizes in previous years. For example, some 2016 models came with a 25-gallon tank. 



How many gallons does a Ford F-250 gas tank hold?


The standard F-250 fuel tank size varies, but it's typically 34 gallons for gas models and 29 gallons for diesel models. However, optional larger tanks are available, with gas engines offering a 48-gallon tank on certain configurations and diesel models having a large optional tank of up to 65 gallons. 
Standard vs. Optional fuel tanks

  • Gasoline engines: The standard tank is 34 gallons, but a 48-gallon tank is available on specific models with a longer wheelbase. 
  • Diesel engines: The standard tank is 29 gallons on a 142-inch wheelbase, while a 65-gallon optional tank is available for long-bed models. 
  • Crew Cab, Short Bed Models: The standard tank is 34 gallons, but optional larger tanks are available. 
  • Crew Cab, Long Bed Models: The standard tank size is 48 gallons for gasoline engines and up to 65 gallons for diesel engines. 

Before purchasing an F-250, consider
  • Your specific needs and driving conditions.
  • Your preferred engine and drivetrain configuration.
  • Whether you require the extra capacity of an optional tank for longer trips. 



How many gallons of gas does a Ford van hold?


Ford van gas tank sizes vary by model year and specific van, with common sizes for modern Ford Transit models being 25 gallons (standard) and an optional 31-gallon extended-range tank. Older models, like the E-Series, had different sizes such as a 35-gallon tank. For a specific van, you can check the owner's manual or the Ford website for the exact capacity.
 
Modern Ford Transit

  • Standard: 25 gallons
  • Optional Extended-Range: 31 gallons
  • Note: Some international models may have a 117-liter (approximately 30.9 gallons) tank, Ford Canada. 

Older Ford Transit and E-Series
  • 2016 Ford Transit: 26.0 gallons, Edmunds
  • 2007 Ford E-350: 35 gallons, AutoZone.com 

How to find the size for your specific van
  • Owner's Manual: Check the "Capacities and Specifications" section of your vehicle's owner's manual.
  • Ford Website: Go to the Ford website, select your vehicle model and trim, and find the "Specifications" section to view the fuel tank capacity, Ford support. 



How big is the gas tank on a Ford Econoline van?


The Ford Econoline van gas tank size varies by model and year, but common sizes include 35 gallons for many E-150 and E-350 models from the 2000s, and 18 gallons for some models in the 1986-1991 range. Other smaller sizes, like 16 to 20 gallons, may be found in specific configurations. 

  • Larger capacities: Many Econoline vans, particularly the E-150 and E-350 models from the 2000s, have a fuel tank capacity of 35 gallons. 
  • Smaller capacities: Some older models, such as the 1986-1991 Econoline, had an 18-gallon tank. 
  • Other sizes: Other capacities, such as 16, 18, 19, and 20 gallons, can be found depending on the specific engine and model year. 
  • Dual tanks: Some models, like an '86 Econoline Clubcab, were equipped with dual tanks, one of which was 32 gallons. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.