Why is Ford coolant orange?
As a seasoned auto service provider, I often encounter questions about vehicle maintenance and the specifics of various automotive fluids. One common inquiry is about the orange coolant used in Ford vehicles. Understanding the significance of coolant color can help car owners make informed decisions about their vehicle's maintenance.
The Purpose of Coolant
Coolant, also known as antifreeze, plays a crucial role in your vehicle's engine. It helps regulate temperature, prevents overheating, and protects against corrosion. The color of the coolant can indicate its chemical composition and intended use.
Why is Ford Coolant Orange?
Ford uses orange coolant, specifically known as Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze/Coolant, which is a type of extended-life coolant. Here are some key reasons why Ford has chosen this particular color:
- Extended Life Formula: The orange coolant is designed to last longer than traditional green coolants, often up to 150,000 miles or five years, whichever comes first.
- Corrosion Protection: This coolant contains organic acid technology (OAT), which provides superior protection against rust and corrosion in the engine and cooling system.
- Compatibility: The orange coolant is formulated to be compatible with the materials used in modern engines, including aluminum, which is commonly found in Ford vehicles.
- Color Coding: The distinct orange color helps differentiate it from other types of coolant, making it easier for mechanics and car owners to identify the correct fluid for their vehicles.
Using the correct coolant is essential for maintaining your vehicle's performance and longevity. Mixing different types of coolant can lead to chemical reactions that may cause damage to the engine.
Conclusion
In summary, Ford's use of orange coolant is a deliberate choice aimed at enhancing engine protection and longevity. By understanding the properties of this coolant, Ford owners can ensure they are using the right products for their vehicles, ultimately leading to better performance and fewer maintenance issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ford orange coolant?
Recommended by Ford Motor Company meeting warranty requirements. Orange-colored, longer-life, ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant for use in gasoline and diesel engines, and electric motors. Provides year-round antifreeze, anti-boil and corrosion protection. Ready-to-use.
Can I use Ford yellow coolant instead of orange?
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.
Do Fords need 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.
How long does Ford orange coolant last?
How often should you change coolant in a Ford? Normally, you should have your Ford coolant flush concluded every 30,000 miles or every two years. There are certain instances where your car can go without a flush for a longer period of time.
Does Ford require special coolant?
Ford Engineers for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury Vehicles
Motorcraft® antifreeze/coolants meet specific Ford Motor Company engineering standards. They have been subjected to extensive in-vehicle testing in the applications for which they have been approved.
What happens if you mix orange and yellow coolant?
Mixing coolants of various types can have extensive and expensive consequences. As mentioned above, the mix can solidify, block your engine, and cause overheating, which can, in turn, cause the following problems: Degraded cylinder heads. Head gasket breakage.
What color is Ford antifreeze?
Yellow
Color of coolant matters if it isn't the right one, or one that supersedes another one. You don't want dark green, gold, green, pink, blue, etc. You are on the right track though with the new Yellow from Ford replacing Orange.
What does it mean if your coolant is orange?
Orange coolant can also be referred to as an Extended Life coolant. This is because it generally lasts longer than inorganic Coolants.
Is it bad to use the wrong color coolant?
It's important to note that the type of coolant you should use can't accurately be identified by color. Using the wrong coolant can lead to corrosion and other damages to the radiator, water pump, radiator hoses, cylinder gasket, and more.
When did Ford discontinue orange coolant?
Ford has discontinued the orange coolant used on many of its vehicles from 2011 to 2018 model years. Hence why, on any vehicles requiring as such, we are now instructed to use the new yellow coolant used on its 2019 and newer model years.
