What coolant does the Ford Ranger use?
Choosing the right coolant for your Ford Ranger is essential to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, plays a critical role in regulating your engine's temperature, preventing overheating in the summer and freezing in the winter. In this article, we’ll explore the type of coolant recommended for the Ford Ranger and why it matters.
Recommended Coolant for the Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger typically requires a specific type of coolant to maintain its engine's health and performance. For most modern Ford Rangers, the recommended coolant is Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant, which is an ethylene glycol-based coolant designed to provide long-lasting protection against corrosion and extreme temperatures. This coolant is specifically formulated to meet Ford's specifications and is compatible with the materials used in the Ranger's engine and cooling system.
It’s important to note that the exact type of coolant may vary depending on the model year of your Ford Ranger. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the most accurate information regarding the recommended coolant type.
Why Using the Correct Coolant Matters
Using the correct coolant is crucial for several reasons:
- Prevents Corrosion: The right coolant contains additives that protect your engine's metal components from rust and corrosion.
- Maintains Optimal Temperature: Coolant helps regulate your engine's temperature, preventing overheating or freezing in extreme weather conditions.
- Ensures Compatibility: Using the wrong coolant can lead to chemical reactions that may damage your engine or cooling system.
- Extends Engine Life: Proper coolant usage reduces wear and tear on your engine, contributing to its longevity.
How to Check and Replace Your Coolant
Maintaining the correct coolant level and quality is essential for your Ford Ranger's performance. Here’s how you can check and replace your coolant:
- Step 1: Ensure your engine is cool before opening the radiator cap or coolant reservoir to avoid burns.
- Step 2: Locate the coolant reservoir under the hood and check the coolant level against the "MIN" and "MAX" markings.
- Step 3: If the coolant level is low, top it off with the recommended Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant or a compatible alternative.
- Step 4: For a complete coolant replacement, drain the old coolant, flush the system with distilled water, and refill it with fresh coolant.
- Step 5: Always dispose of old coolant responsibly, as it is toxic and harmful to the environment.
Final Thoughts
Using the correct coolant for your Ford Ranger is a simple yet vital step in maintaining your vehicle's health. By following the manufacturer’s recommendations and performing regular coolant checks, you can ensure your Ranger runs smoothly for years to come. If you’re unsure about the type of coolant your vehicle needs or how to replace it, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos for professional assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to use Dexcool in a Ford?
Designed to work with all GM ® vehicles 1995 & newer (GM ®-approved), most Ford ® vehicles 2011-2018 and most Chrysler ® vehicles 2013 & newer.
What happens if you mix the wrong coolant?
First, what's important to know is that many IAT and OAT coolants do not mix. In fact if they're added into a cooling system together the results can be catastrophic, creating a gelatinous substance that blocks the system and causes widespread damage to internal components.
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.
Can I use Prestone coolant in my Ford?
Designed to work with all GM ® vehicles 1995 & newer (GM ®-approved), most Ford ® vehicles 2011-2018 and most Chrysler ® vehicles 2013 & newer. Manages engine temperature, prevents freezing and protects the engine from corrosion. Protects vital engine parts for up to 5 years/150,000 miles with Extended Life Formula.
Can I use yellow coolant instead of orange Ford?
Longtime MOTOR readers know that the color of the coolant dye really is meaningless. Dye should help you spot a leak, but that's about it.
What is the best coolant for Ford?
Thanks for holding! The correct coolant for your vehicle is: Motorcraft Orange Predeluted Antifreeze/Coolant (it may look pink in the reservoir, but it's actually more toward a light shade of orange). This should be readily available at most local parts stores.
Can you use universal coolant in a 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/ ...
What color coolant does a Ford Ranger take?
What color coolant does 2020 Ford Ranger use? It's crucial to understand that color doesn't matter. While most Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolants are frequently orange, yellow, red or purple, Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants are orange and yellow. So evidently, there's quite a bit of overlap.
What color is Ford coolant?
Motorcraft® Premium, Gold and Orange Antifreeze/Coolants are now available pre- mixed 50/50 with deionized water. The 50/50 mixture helps ensure vehicles get optimal corrosion, freeze and overheat protection and minimizes possible mix errors by technicians.
Can I use Prestone coolant in Ford?
Yes. Prestone is an OAT coolant/antifreeze but also contains anti-corrosion ingredients to protect your cooling system. It can be used in all cars effectively, offering the same levels of protection, and without any damage. We offer a guarantee that Prestone is suitable for all cars and engine materials.
