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What type of ATF does Ford use?

Ford does not rely on a single automatic transmission fluid across its lineup. The correct ATF depends on the transmission family and model year. The most common fluids today are Mercon LV, Mercon V, and in some cases Dexron VI as a substitute, but you should always verify with the owner's manual or Ford’s official specifications for your exact model.

In detail, Ford’s ATF specifications vary by transmission family and year. Older Ford automatics often used Mercon or Mercon V, while many newer transmissions specify Mercon LV (low viscosity). Dexron VI may be listed as an acceptable substitute for certain transmissions, but this is not universal. Using the wrong fluid or mixing fluids can impair shifting and shorten transmission life, so verification is essential before a fill or drain-and-fill service.

Ford ATF Basics

Understanding the main ATF families helps owners identify what to buy. The following list covers the most common types you’ll encounter in Ford vehicles today.

Mercon: The original Ford automatic transmission fluid, used in older transmissions dating back to the C4/AOD era.

Mercon V: A higher‑performance formulation used in a broad range of Ford automatics from the late 1990s through the mid‑2000s.

Mercon LV: Ford’s low‑viscosity fluid adopted for many modern transmissions (2010s onward) to improve efficiency and shifting in newer gearboxes.

Dexron VI: GM’s specification that is sometimes listed as an acceptable substitute for certain Ford transmissions when Mercon LV isn’t available; compatibility depends on the model and year—always confirm with the manual.

Note: Do not mix ATF types. If you are servicing a transmission, use only the specification listed in the owner’s manual or Ford’s official service literature for your exact model.

Common Transmission Families and Their ATF Requirements

Ford’s modern lineup includes several transmission families, each with its own ATF spec. The following overview reflects typical guidance, but always verify for your exact model and year.

Older Ford automatics (pre‑2010) generally used Mercon or Mercon V depending on the model and year.

Mid‑2010s to present: many six-, seven-, and ten‑speed automatics in F‑Series trucks, Escape, Fusion, Mustang, and SUVs specify Mercon LV as the standard fluid.

Dexron VI is sometimes listed as an acceptable alternative in some Ford transmissions; use only if the manual explicitly allows it.

The bottom line: consult your owner's manual or Ford’s official service literature for the exact ATF specification for your vehicle’s transmission.

How to Find the Right ATF for Your Ford

Determining the correct ATF starts with checking official documentation and labeling. Here are reliable steps to confirm the right fluid for your vehicle.

Check the owner's manual

The exact specification (for example, Mercon LV, Mercon V, or another) is listed in the owner's manual under the transmission section or maintenance schedule.

Inspect the dipstick or service label

Some Ford models include a dipstick label or service panel indicating the recommended ATF specification.

Confirm with official sources

If in doubt, contact a Ford dealer or consult Ford’s official service literature, which will specify the exact specification for your transmission family.

Summary

Ford’s ATF landscape is not uniform. The recommended fluid varies by transmission family and year, with Mercon LV and Mercon V serving as the primary modern options and Dexron VI appearing as an acceptable substitute in some cases. Always verify with the vehicle’s manual or Ford’s official guidance to ensure you use the correct ATF and avoid potential transmission damage.

What replaced Mercon ATF?

The correct Mercon ATF equivalent depends on the specific type you need (e.g., Mercon, Mercon V, Mercon LV, Mercon ULV), as Ford has released several updated versions. For older applications that specify Mercon, DEXRON-3/MERCON fluids like Valvoline MaxLife ATF or Castrol ATF TQ-DIII are suitable equivalents. For newer vehicles, you must use the specific fluid listed in your owner's manual, such as Mercon LV or Mercon ULV, and use an equivalent labeled for that specific specification, like Valvoline's full synthetic DEXRON VI/MERCON LV or Valvoline Mercon ULV.
Equivalents for older Mercon specifications

For Mercon (original): Any fluid that meets the DEXRON-3/MERCON specification will work.
- Shell Donax TX
- Mobil ATF 320
- Castrol ATF TQ-DIII
For Mercon V: The original Mercon V is largely interchangeable with Mercon fluids, and Mercon V is also back-serviceable for applications requiring Mercon.
- Valvoline MaxLife ATF

Equivalents for newer Mercon specifications

For Mercon LV: Use an equivalent specifically labeled as Mercon LV.
- Valvoline's full synthetic DEXRON VI/MERCON LV
For Mercon ULV: Use an equivalent specifically labeled as Mercon ULV.
- Valvoline Mercon ULV

Important considerations

Check your owner's manual: Always consult your owner's manual to determine the exact fluid required for your vehicle, as the wrong type can cause shifting issues and damage.
Use the correct specification: Using the wrong fluid for your transmission's age and type can cause problems. For example, using a fluid that is not the correct viscosity for newer 10-speed transmissions can cause them to shift incorrectly.
Mercon V is often a safe bet for older applications: If your manual calls for the original Mercon or Mercon V, using a modern Mercon V equivalent is generally a safe choice, as it can be used in place of Mercon.

Can I use Dexron VI in a Ford?

KLONDIKE DEXRON®-VI / MERCON® LV Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is a highly advanced, premium low viscosity automatic transmission fluid designed for use in vehicles manufactured by General Motors and Ford where DEXRON®-VI and/or MERCON® LV fluids are specified.

Can an ATF 4 be used in a Ford?

Mobil ATF+4 is not recommended for vehicles that require Ford Mercon® or General Motors Dexron® type fluids. Automatic transmissions should be checked for proper fluid levels at regular intervals, and the fluid should be changed at manufacturer-recommended intervals.

What is the best transmission fluid for Ford?

For ATF, stick with Ford ``licensed'' fluids. They aren't expensive and are certainly the safest. Lots of people use fluids like Valvoline Maxlife ATF and I'm sure it's fine too. Licensed fluids are Motorcraft LV, Supertech LV, Castrol Full Synthetic ATF, and a few more.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.