How many quarts of transmission fluid for a 2005 Ford Explorer?
The typical total transmission fluid capacity for a 2005 Ford Explorer with the common automatic is about 12 quarts. When performing a drain-and-fill with a new filter, plan to replace roughly 9 to 11 quarts to bring the system to the proper level after circulating the fluid.
The 2005 Explorer primarily uses the 5R55S automatic transmission paired with the 4.0-liter V6 in many trims. Capacity figures can vary slightly based on drivetrain (2WD vs. 4WD) and whether you’re draining the pan only or flushing the entire system, including cooler lines and the torque converter. Always verify with the vehicle’s service manual or a trusted dealer for your VIN.
Understanding the capacity for planning your service
Below are the key numbers and guidance you should consider when planning a transmission fluid service on this model. This list helps differentiate between total capacity and typical fill requirements after a common service procedure.
- Total transmission fluid capacity (system-wide, including cooler lines and converter): about 12 quarts.
- Typical drain-and-fill amount for a standard pan drain with a new filter: roughly 9–11 quarts to bring the level up to the full mark after circulating through gears.
- Important reminder: always check the transmission fluid level after warming the vehicle, with the engine running and the transmission in Park. Add or siphon off fluid to reach the correct level as indicated by the dipstick.
Variations can occur based on the exact drivetrain configuration and whether the service involved a full flush or a simple pan drain. For the most precise figure, consult the owner's manual or contact a Ford service center with your VIN.
Why capacity can vary and how to check accurately
Transmission capacities are specified for each model year and drivetrain configuration. Even small differences in the cooling circuit or torque converter contents can shift the actual amount needed. After performing any fluid service, run the transmission through all gears with the engine running, check for smooth shifts, and recheck the level on a level surface to ensure accuracy.
Bottom line and guidance
For a 2005 Ford Explorer with the common automatic transmission, plan on about 12 quarts for a full system fill. If you’re doing a drain-and-fill with a new filter, expect to replace roughly 9–11 quarts to reach the proper level after cycling and warming up the transmission. Always verify the final level with the dipstick and refer to the manual or dealer guidance for VIN-specific specifications.
Summary: The typical total capacity is around 12 quarts; a standard drain-and-fill with a filter usually requires about 9–11 quarts to restore the level, and final verification with the dipstick is essential for an accurate fill.
How much transmission fluid does a 2005 Ford Explorer take?
The 2005 Ford Explorer transmission fluid capacity depends on the transmission model, but the 5R55S (5-speed) has a total fill of approximately 12.7 quarts. If you are only draining and refilling, the capacity is about 5 to 7 quarts for the 5R55S, while the 5R55E (4WD) needs about 9.8 liters and the 5R55E (RWD) needs about 9.5 liters for a total fill.
This video demonstrates how to fill the transmission fluid on a Ford Explorer 5R55S: 55sPlatinum ProductionsYouTube · Apr 29, 2022
5R55S (5-speed)
- Total fill: 12.7 quarts
- Drain and refill: Approximately 5 to 7 quarts
- Fluid type: MERCON V is the correct fluid for this transmission
5R55E
- 4WD Total fill: 9.8 liters (about 10.4 quarts)
- RWD Total fill: 9.5 liters (about 10 quarts)
- Fluid type: MERCON V is the correct fluid for this transmission
Important considerations
- Always check the dipstick: After refilling, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the fluid. Then, check the fluid level with the transmission in park and the engine idling. Add more fluid as needed to reach the correct level.
- Use the correct fluid: It is crucial to use the recommended transmission fluid, which is MERCON V.
- Manual reference: Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate specifications for your specific vehicle.
How many quarts of transmission fluid for a drain and fill?
For a standard transmission fluid drain and fill, you'll typically need 3 to 5 quarts, but you should always measure the amount you drained and refill with the same amount to start, then check the level using the dipstick after running the engine. The exact amount varies by vehicle, and it's crucial to check the owner's manual or look up specifications for your specific make and model, as a drain and fill will not replace all the old fluid.
How to determine the right amount
- Drain the old fluid: Let the old fluid drain completely.
- Measure the drained fluid: Measure how much fluid was drained. This is your starting point for refilling.
- Refill with the measured amount: Put the same amount of new, correct transmission fluid back into the transmission. Using a funnel can help with this process.
- Start the engine: Start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes, shifting through all the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive) while holding the brake. This circulates the new fluid.
- Check the level: Turn the engine off and check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more fluid in small increments if the level is low, or drain a small amount if it's too high.
- Re-check: Repeat the process of running the engine and checking the dipstick until the fluid level is correct according to the dipstick's hash marks for a "hot" reading.
Important considerations
- A drain and fill is different from a full transmission flush, which requires significantly more fluid (10-12 quarts or more) because it aims to replace all the fluid, including what's in the torque converter.
- You should always use the specific type of transmission fluid recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to avoid damage.
- Some vehicles, like certain Land Rovers, do not have a dipstick and require a fluid extractor to add new fluid. Consult your owner's manual to be certain.
How many quarts of transmission fluid does a Ford Explorer take?
The amount of transmission fluid a Ford Explorer takes depends on the model year and engine, with capacities ranging from approximately 4 to 12 quarts for a total fill. For a typical drain and refill, you will need between 4 and 12 quarts, but for a complete fluid flush, the capacity is higher.
Transmission fluid capacity by model year
| Model Year | Estimated Total Fill Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2003 | ~12 quarts |
| 2004 | ~7 quarts (6F50) |
| 2005 | ~6-7 quarts |
| 2010 | ~3.5 quarts (4.0L) |
| 2013 | ~11.6 quarts (6F55) |
| 2015 | ~11 quarts (6F55) |
| 2017 | ~10.9 quarts (6F50) |
| 2018 | ~11.6 quarts (6F55) |
| 2019 | ~9 quarts (6F35) |
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Important considerations
- Consult your owner's manual: Always check your owner's manual for the exact specifications for your vehicle, as capacities vary by model year, engine, and transmission type.
- Perform a drain-and-fill: For a simple drain-and-fill, you will only need a portion of the total capacity.
- Avoid overfilling: Overfilling can cause damage to the transmission and lead to improper shifting.
- Use the correct fluid: Ensure you use the specific fluid recommended by Ford, such as Mercon V or Mercon LV, depending on your model year.
What kind of transmission fluid does a 2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac take?
The correct transmission fluid for a 2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is Mercon V. While older specifications like Dexron III/Mercon were once common, Mercon V is the specific requirement for this vehicle. You should always use Mercon V or an equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF) labeled for Mercon V applications, as using other types can cause damage.
This video shows how to locate the transmission dipstick in a 2005 Ford Explorer: 48sfixingstuffinblackandwhiteYouTube · Nov 7, 2023
- Recommended fluid: Mercon V automatic transmission fluid is specifically called for in the owner's manual.
- Equivalent fluids: Look for automatic transmission fluids that explicitly state they are compatible with Mercon V. Synthetic Mercon V is also an acceptable option.
- Fluids to avoid: Do not use Dexron III/Mercon in applications that specifically require Mercon V, and be sure to check the product label for compatibility before purchasing.
- Always check the owner's manual: It is always best to consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the correct type of transmission fluid.
