2013 Ford Taurus Coolant Type – The Essential Guide For Engine Health

ByRobert Lozano

The 2013 Ford Taurus requires Motorcraft Specialty Green Engine Coolant, which is an OAT-based (Organic Acid Technology) formula designed to protect your cooling system from corrosion. Using the wrong fluid can lead to premature pump failure or clogged heater cores, so always ensure your bottle carries the Ford WSS-M97B55-A specification.

You rely on your Ford Taurus to get you to work, handle the weekend grocery runs, and perhaps even tackle the occasional road trip. But even the most dependable sedan eventually needs routine maintenance to stay on the road.

One of the most critical, yet often overlooked, aspects of vehicle longevity is your choice of antifreeze. Choosing the right 2013 ford taurus coolant type is not just about keeping the engine from overheating; it is about protecting the delicate internal components of your cooling system from rust and scale.

If you are planning to perform a flush or a simple top-off, you have come to the right place. We are going to walk through the technical requirements, the risks of mixing fluids, and how to keep your engine running at its peak.

Understanding the 2013 Ford Taurus Coolant Type Requirements

For the 2013 model year, Ford moved away from traditional green silicate-based coolants in favor of more advanced formulations. Your vehicle is engineered to use Motorcraft Specialty Green Engine Coolant, which is specifically designed to meet the WSS-M97B55-A engineering standard.

This coolant is an OAT-based formula. Unlike the older inorganic coolants, this type is designed to last longer and provide superior protection for aluminum engine blocks and radiators.

Always check your owner’s manual or the label on your coolant reservoir. Using a generic “universal” coolant often leads to a chemical reaction that can turn your fluid into a gel-like substance, effectively destroying your cooling system from the inside out.

Why You Should Never Mix Coolant Colors

You might have seen bright yellow, orange, or even blue fluids at the auto parts store. In the world of automotive chemistry, color is often used as a rough indicator of the chemical additive package, but it is not a perfect system.

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Mixing the correct 2013 ford taurus coolant type with a different, incompatible formula can cause the additives to fall out of suspension. This results in sludge buildup.

The Danger of Sludge

Once sludge forms, it acts like an insulator inside your radiator, preventing heat from escaping. It can also clog the tiny passages in your heater core, leading to a loss of cabin heat during those cold winter months.

If you are unsure what is currently in your radiator, a full system flush is the safest path forward. Never guess when it comes to the fluid that keeps your engine from suffering a catastrophic melt-down.

Steps for a Safe Coolant System Flush

Performing a coolant flush is a rewarding DIY project that saves you money and gives you peace of mind. Before you begin, ensure the engine is completely cool to the touch—never open a pressurized cooling system while it is hot.

  1. Safety First: Park on a flat, level surface and wear safety glasses and gloves.
  2. Drain the System: Locate the petcock drain valve at the bottom of the radiator and drain the old fluid into a catch pan.
  3. Refill and Flush: Fill the system with distilled water, run the engine to operating temperature, and drain it again to remove residual contaminants.
  4. Add the Proper Fluid: Use the correct 2013 ford taurus coolant type and mix it with distilled water—typically a 50/50 ratio—unless you bought the pre-diluted version.
  5. Bleed the Air: Open the reservoir cap while the engine runs to allow trapped air bubbles to escape, then top off as necessary.

Identifying Cooling System Issues Early

Even with the right fluid, parts wear out. Keep an eye out for tell-tale signs that your cooling system needs professional attention or a repair.

Common Symptoms

  • Sweet Smell: A sickly sweet scent inside the cabin or around the engine bay often indicates a coolant leak.
  • Discolored Fluid: If the coolant looks brown or murky instead of its original green, it is contaminated and needs replacement.
  • Fluctuating Temp Gauge: If your temperature needle bounces or climbs unexpectedly, you may have a thermostat sticking or air trapped in the system.

Choosing the Right Tools and Materials

You do not need a professional garage to maintain your Taurus. A few basic tools will make the job much easier and safer for both you and your vehicle.

  • Coolant Funnel: A spill-free funnel is a game-changer for refilling the reservoir without making a mess.
  • Hydrometer/Refractometer: These tools help you measure the freezing and boiling points of your coolant mixture.
  • Distilled Water: Never use tap water. The minerals in tap water will cause scale buildup inside your radiator over time.
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Frequently Asked Questions About 2013 Ford Taurus Coolant Type

Can I use Dex-Cool in my 2013 Ford Taurus?

No. Dex-Cool is designed for GM vehicles and uses a different chemical inhibitor package. Always stick to the Motorcraft Specialty Green coolant to ensure compatibility with your Ford-specific engine components.

How often should I change the coolant?

While some coolants are marketed as “lifetime,” it is best practice to change it every 5 years or 50,000 miles to ensure the corrosion inhibitors remain active.

What if I accidentally mixed two different types?

If you have mixed fluids, do not panic, but do not wait to fix it. Drain the entire system as soon as possible and perform a thorough water flush to remove the mixed chemicals before they have a chance to turn into sludge.

Is the 2013 ford taurus coolant type the same for the SHO model?

Yes, the 3.5L EcoBoost engine in the SHO model utilizes the same cooling system requirements as the standard 3.5L Duratec engine. Always verify the part number on the Motorcraft label to be 100% certain.

Taking care of your cooling system is one of the smartest investments you can make in your vehicle’s lifespan. By sticking to the recommended 2013 ford taurus coolant type and keeping your system clean, you ensure that your Taurus stays reliable for years to come.

If you ever feel overwhelmed by the process, do not hesitate to reach out to a local mechanic. Staying proactive is the key to a healthy engine. Stay safe and keep those gears turning!

Robert Lozano
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