How much transmission fluid does a Ford F250 need?
The transmission fluid capacity of a Ford F-250 depends on the transmission model fitted to the truck. In general, you’re looking at about 13 quarts for the common 6R140 automatic, and roughly 15–16 quarts for the newer 10R140 automatic. The exact amount varies by year, model options, and whether you’re doing a simple pan drop or a full fluid change. For precision, consult your owner's manual or Ford service data for your VIN.
In this article we explain how the capacity varies with transmission type, what you typically replace during service, and how to check and top off the fluid correctly after a drain-and-fill or flush. The goal is to give you a clear sense of what to expect, so you can plan maintenance without surprises.
Transmission options in the F-250
These figures reflect the two automatic transmissions most commonly found in Ford Super Duty pickups in recent years.
- 6R140 six-speed automatic — used on many 2009–2017/2019 F-250 Super Duty models; total capacity is typically around 13 quarts (roughly 3.25 gallons).
- 10R140 ten-speed automatic — used on newer Super Duty models; total capacity is typically around 15–16 quarts (roughly 3.75–4.0 gallons).
Note: These are typical capacities. Exact figures can vary by year, option packages, and whether a new filter is installed during service. Always verify with the owner's manual or Ford service data for your specific VIN.
Service considerations: how much fluid you replace during a drain and fill
When performing maintenance, the amount of fluid you actually replace depends on whether you do a simple pan drop with or without a filter change, or a full flush. The two most common scenarios are outlined below.
- Identify the correct transmission model for your F-250 by checking the VIN, the owner's manual, or the stamping on the transmission itself.
- Choose the service method: pan drop with a new filter or a transmission flush, and use the ATF type specified by Ford for your model (consult the manual).
- If doing a pan drop: remove the transmission pan, replace the filter, clean the pan, and reinstall with a new gasket as recommended by Ford.
- Refill gradually with the recommended ATF, starting with a portion of the estimated total, run the engine, cycle through gears as directed, and recheck the level when the fluid is warm.
- Check for leaks, then top off to the full mark if needed once the vehicle is tested on a level surface and the transmission is at its proper operating temperature.
Conclusion: In practice, a drain-and-fill on a 6R140 typically uses most of the system’s ~13 quarts, while a full flush on a 10R140 can require roughly 15–16 quarts. Always rely on the dipstick and the vehicle’s manual for the exact amount for your build.
Summary
Transmission fluid capacity in the Ford F-250 depends on the transmission type. The 6R140 commonly holds about 13 quarts, while the newer 10R140 holds about 15–16 quarts. For maintenance, plan based on whether you’re performing a pan drop or a full flush, and always verify precise figures for your exact vehicle using the owner's manual or Ford service data. Checking the level with the engine warm on a level surface and avoiding overfill are essential steps for proper operation.
