How much transmission fluid does a Ford Flex take?
The Ford Flex typically requires about 12 quarts of automatic transmission fluid for a full fill, though the exact amount depends on the model year, engine, and whether you’re draining the pan or performing a complete fluid exchange.
Capacity overview
Before you head to the shop or the driveway with a jug of fluid, here is a concise look at typical capacities and what the numbers mean for service planning.
- Total system capacity for the 6-speed automatic used in most Ford Flex models is roughly 12 quarts (about 11–12 liters).
- Pan drain and refill (draining only the pan) generally replaces about 6–9 quarts, depending on how much fluid remains in the torque converter and cooler lines.
- A full transmission fluid exchange or flush may require around 12–13 quarts to bring the system back to its full capacity.
In practice, have a little extra on hand to top off after service, and refer to your owner’s manual or service bulletin for the exact spec for your VIN and year.
Model-year and variant specifics
Most Ford Flex models use the 6-speed automatic transmission (families in the 6F50/6F55 family). While the overall capacity is similar across years, small differences can occur based on engine options and whether a new filter is installed during service.
Year-by-year considerations
- 2009–2012 Flex with the common 3.5L V6 and 6F50 tends to align with about 12 quarts total capacity.
- 2013–2019 Flex models with similar 6-speed automatics generally follow the same ballpark, with minor variations by production changes or optional equipment.
Always verify the exact specification for your vehicle using the owner’s manual, the transmission dipstick label, or the official Ford service bulletin for your VIN.
Service steps and top-off guidance
If you’re performing a drain-and-fill or a full fluid exchange, follow these steps to estimate and manage the fluid that’s necessary.
- Warm up the vehicle to operating temperature, then level the vehicle on a flat surface.
- Drain the transmission pan completely, remove and replace the filter if your service plan calls for it.
- Install a new pan gasket, reinstall the pan, and refill with the recommended transmission fluid in multiple stages.
- Run the engine, cycle through gears, and re-check the level with the dipstick according to the manual’s procedure.
- Top off as needed in small increments to reach the correct level, maintaining the level with the engine warm and in the proper gear as specified.
- Recheck after the vehicle sits and cools, then recheck again after a short test drive to ensure stability.
Note: Use the fluid specification listed in your owner’s manual (Ford commonly uses Mercon LV for newer automatics). Do not overfill, as excess fluid can cause foaming and shifting issues.
Fluid type and top-off guidance
Choosing the correct fluid and maintaining proper levels are essential for longevity and smooth shifting. Here are practical reminders to guide your purchase and topping-off process.
- Fluid type: Use the specification listed in your manual (most newer Ford Automatics in the Flex line require Mercon LV; older references may specify Mercon V).
- Level checking: Check level when the fluid is warm and the transmission is in Park (or Neutral if specified) and the engine has been run through all gears as directed by the manual.
- Top-off discipline: Add small amounts gradually, rechecking frequently to avoid overfilling, which can lead to foaming and shifting issues.
After topping off, perform a short test drive and recheck the level once the fluid has settled. If in doubt, consult a qualified technician or the dealer for an exact VIN-specific specification.
Summary
The Ford Flex generally holds about 12 quarts of automatic transmission fluid, with pan-drain procedures replacing roughly 6–9 quarts and full flushes requiring around 12–13 quarts. Exact figures vary slightly by model year, engine option, and whether a filter is replaced. Always follow the vehicle’s manual or service bulletin for your specific VIN, and use the recommended fluid type. Properly topping off and cycling through gears ensures accurate level readings and reliable performance.
How many quarts of transmission fluid do I need 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 2009 Ford Flex take?
The total fill capacity for a 2009 Ford Flex is approximately 10 to 12.5 quarts of transmission fluid. During a standard drain and fill, you will need about 4.5 to 5 quarts of fluid, as this only removes the fluid from the pan and torque converter. A full system flush or dry fill requires more fluid, and the exact amount can vary slightly, so it's important to check the level according to the manufacturer's procedure.
This video demonstrates the process of draining and filling the transmission fluid in a Ford Flex: 1mJeray RacingYouTube · Nov 17, 2024
Capacity guidelines
- Total Fill (Dry Fill): ~10 to 12.5 quarts.
- Drain and Fill: ~4.5 to 5 quarts. This is the amount of fluid you will typically add during a standard transmission service, as a drain and fill does not empty the entire system.
- Fluid Type: The recommended fluid is Mercon LV (low viscosity).
You can watch this video to see how to check the transmission fluid level on a Ford Flex: 1mJohnson's Gee-rageYouTube · Dec 25, 2013
Important considerations
- Checking the level: Since the 2009 Ford Flex transmission does not have a traditional dipstick for checking the fluid level, you will need to use the inspection plug or a scan tool.
- Proper procedure: To check the fluid level correctly, warm the vehicle to its operating temperature, and then use the inspection plug on the side of the transmission.
- Avoid overfilling: Adding too much fluid can cause damage to the transmission, so it is better to add less than you think you need, run the engine, and then re-check the level.
How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 2013 Ford Flex take?
Capacities and Specifications - 3.5L
| Item | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Automatic transmission fluid* | 11.0 qt (10.4 L) |
| Windshield washer fluid | Fill as required |
| Fuel tank (Front Wheel Drive) | 18.4 gal (69.5 L) |
| Fuel tank (All Wheel Drive) | 18.5 gal (70 L) |
How many quarts does a Ford Flex take?
6 quarts
Up to 6 quarts of oil; extra quarts will require an additional charge.
