What transmission fluid does a 2010 Ford Taurus take?
For the 2010 Ford Taurus, the recommended automatic transmission fluid is Mercon LV.
The Taurus of this era uses a 6-speed automatic transmission (the 6F-series family), and Ford specifies Mercon LV as the correct ATF. Using the proper fluid is essential for smooth shifting, proper lubrication, and transmission longevity. Always verify with the owner's manual or a Ford dealer if you’re unsure about your specific vehicle’s requirements.
Official specification for the 2010 Taurus
The 2010 Taurus with the standard automatic transmission (6F35/6F50 family) calls for Mercon LV ATF. This low-viscosity fluid is designed for Ford’s modern automatic transmissions and provides the intended friction characteristics and protection.
When shopping for ATF, choose products that explicitly state Mercon LV on the label or meet Ford's Mercon LV specification. The OEM choice is Motorcraft Mercon LV, though many reputable brands offer Mercon LV-certified ATF as well.
Where to buy and what to look for
Before listing options, note that you should look for fluids labeled Mercon LV. For Ford vehicles, Motorcraft is the OEM brand and is widely available. Non-OEM brands sometimes list Mercon LV compatibility, but you should verify the specification on the bottle or datasheet.
- Mercon LV ATF (Ford specification); OEM option: Motorcraft Mercon LV.
- Any brand-certified Mercon LV ATF; verify that the bottle specifies "Mercon LV" or lists the specification on the label.
- When unsure, consult your owner's manual or a Ford dealership/service center for confirmation before purchasing or pouring ATF.
In practice, using Mercon LV is the recommended approach for the 2010 Taurus to ensure proper shifting and protection. If Mercon LV is unavailable, check with a dealership for an approved alternative before proceeding.
Maintenance tips and best practices
Fluids degrade and contaminants accumulate over time. For most owners, a full fluid change at the recommended service interval is advised, and if you notice shifting issues, a transmission service may be warranted. The 2010 Taurus's transmission fluid capacity and service procedure can vary, so refer to the owner's manual for exact specs and procedures.
- Follow the owner's manual for service intervals and capacity.
- Use a Mercon LV-qualified ATF; OEM brand is often recommended.
- During a service, consider replacing the transmission filter if applicable and performing a drain-and-fill or a professional flush as recommended by the technician.
Maintaining the correct ATF and changing it at recommended intervals helps keep the Taurus's transmission operating smoothly and extends its life.
Bottom line
For a 2010 Ford Taurus, Mercon LV automatic transmission fluid is the correct choice. Use a Mercon LV-certified ATF from Motorcraft or another reputable brand and follow Ford's service schedule. When in doubt, verify with the owner's manual or a Ford dealer before performing a fluid replacement.
Summary: The 2010 Ford Taurus takes Mercon LV ATF. Choose OEM Motorcraft Mercon LV or another certified Mercon LV ATF, follow service intervals, and consult a dealer if you have questions to ensure optimal transmission performance.
What kind of transmission fluid does a 2010 Ford take?
Valvoline Dexron VI/Mercon LV ATF full synthetic.
Is all ATF +4 transmission fluid synthetic?
Yes, ATF+4 is a synthetic automatic transmission fluid that is licensed by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) to meet specific performance standards for Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles. It is engineered to provide better thermal stability, reduced wear, and consistent shifting compared to conventional fluids.
- Composition: ATF+4 is a full-synthetic fluid designed to protect automatic transmissions in FCA (now Stellantis) vehicles.
- Licensing: The "ATF+4" designation is a registered trademark licensed by FCA, ensuring that products from different brands meet the same quality standards.
- Benefits: The synthetic formula offers superior performance over conventional fluids, including better protection against heat, oxidation, and wear, which extends transmission life.
- Usage: It is backward-serviceable, meaning it can be used in older transmissions that require ATF+, ATF+2, or ATF+3 fluids, and it is the standard for many newer models as well.
What type of transmission fluid does a 2010 Ford Taurus take?
Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid 1 Quart.
What transmission fluid for Ford Taurus?
Motorcraft – Mercon – V Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Quart (Part No. XT5QMC) The only parts recommended by Ford Motor Company for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.
