2013 Ford Taurus Transmission Fluid Type – The Expert Guide
The 2013 Ford Taurus requires MERCON LV automatic transmission fluid to ensure the 6F35 or 6F50/55 transaxles shift smoothly and stay cool. Using the correct low-viscosity synthetic fluid prevents premature wear and protects the internal components of your sedan’s powertrain. This guide provides the exact specifications, capacities, and DIY steps you need to maintain your Taurus like a pro.
If you have ever felt your car shutter during a gear change or noticed a slight delay when pulling away from a stoplight, your transmission is trying to tell you something. Maintaining the health of your vehicle starts with using the right supplies, and for this specific Ford model, the details matter immensely.
Choosing the correct 2013 ford taurus transmission fluid type is the single most important maintenance decision you can make for your car’s drivetrain. In this guide, we will walk through why the fluid type is non-negotiable and how you can handle the maintenance yourself without a trip to the dealership.
Whether you are a daily commuter or a weekend DIYer looking to save a few hundred dollars, understanding your transmission’s needs is key. Let’s dive into the technical specs and the practical “how-to” that keeps your Ford on the road for another 100,000 miles.
Why the 2013 ford taurus transmission fluid type Matters for Your Car
The transmission in your Ford Taurus is a complex piece of hydraulic machinery that relies on fluid for more than just lubrication. It uses fluid to create the pressure needed to change gears, to cool down moving parts, and to keep internal seals from drying out.
Ford engineered the 2013 Taurus with specific tolerances that require a very thin, low-viscosity oil. Using the exact 2013 ford taurus transmission fluid type ensures that the fluid flows quickly enough through the small passages inside the valve body, even when the weather is freezing outside.
If you use an older style of fluid, such as MERCON V, it will be too thick for the 6F series transmissions found in this vehicle. This can lead to increased friction, overheating, and eventually, a total transmission failure that could cost thousands to repair.
The MERCON LV Specification
The “LV” in MERCON LV stands for Low Viscosity. This fluid was designed specifically to improve fuel economy by reducing the “drag” inside the transmission while still providing high-level protection against metal-to-metal contact.
It is important to note that MERCON LV is not backward compatible with older Ford transmissions, and older fluids are not forward compatible with your 2013 Taurus. Always check the bottle to ensure it explicitly states it meets the Ford MERCON LV (WSS-M2C933-A) standard.
Many high-quality aftermarket brands offer MERCON LV alternatives, but most Ford technicians recommend staying with the Motorcraft brand. It is the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) fluid that the transmission was tested with during its development phase.
Identifying Your Transmission Model
Before you head to the parts store, you should know which version of the transmission is sitting under your hood. While they all use the same 2013 ford taurus transmission fluid type, their capacities and service intervals can vary slightly.
The 2013 Ford Taurus was typically equipped with one of three variations of the 6-speed automatic transaxle. These were co-developed with GM and are generally considered robust if they are given fresh fluid at regular intervals.
The 6F35 is usually found paired with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine or the base 3.5L V6 in some configurations. The 6F50 and 6F55 are “heavy-duty” versions found in the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 and the high-performance Taurus SHO (3.5L EcoBoost) models.
The 6F35 Transaxle
This is the lighter-duty version of the transmission. It is designed for efficiency and smooth shifting in standard driving conditions. If you drive a front-wheel-drive base model, this is likely what you have.
Because it holds less fluid than its bigger brothers, it can be more sensitive to heat. If you live in a hilly area or experience heavy stop-and-go traffic, you should consider changing your fluid more frequently than the manual suggests.
The 6F50 and 6F55 Transaxles
The 6F50 is the standard for the V6 models, while the 6F55 is the beefed-up version specifically for the SHO. The 6F55 features upgraded internal components to handle the massive torque from the twin-turbocharged engine.
Even though these are “beefier,” they still utilize the same 2013 ford taurus transmission fluid type (MERCON LV). The SHO models often run hotter due to the turbochargers, making regular fluid checks even more critical for performance enthusiasts.
Capacity and Service Intervals: How Much and When?
Knowing how much fluid to buy is the first step in a successful DIY project. For a standard “drain and fill” service on a 2013 Ford Taurus, you will typically need between 4 and 6 quarts of MERCON LV fluid.
A total “dry fill” (if the transmission was completely empty) is much higher, usually around 9 to 11 quarts depending on the specific model. However, a DIYer will almost never drain the entire system, as much of the fluid stays trapped in the torque converter.
Ford’s official maintenance schedule might suggest waiting until 150,000 miles for a transmission service. However, most experienced mechanics suggest a much more proactive approach to ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
The “Real World” Maintenance Schedule
If you want your Taurus to last, consider changing the fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. This is especially true if you use your car for “severe duty,” which includes towing, idling for long periods, or driving in extreme heat.
Transmission fluid breaks down over time due to heat cycles. By the time the fluid reaches 150,000 miles, it has often lost its ability to protect the gears and keep the seals soft, which is why many Taurus owners experience “hard shifts” later in the car’s life.
Regularly refreshing a portion of the fluid keeps the additive package strong. Since the 2013 Taurus does not have a user-serviceable transmission filter (it is buried deep inside the case), keeping the fluid clean is your only line of defense.
Checking Your Fluid Levels: A Step-by-Step DIY Process
Checking the fluid in a 2013 Ford Taurus is a bit different than in older cars. The dipstick is often hidden or shorter than you might expect, and it requires a specific procedure to get an accurate reading.
First, you must ensure the car is on level ground. If the car is tilted, the fluid will pool to one side of the transaxle, giving you a false reading that could lead to overfilling or underfilling the system.
The 2013 ford taurus transmission fluid type must be checked while the engine is running and the transmission is at operating temperature. This usually requires a 15-minute drive to get the fluid warm enough to expand to its “hot” reading level.
Locating the Dipstick
Open the hood and look toward the back of the engine bay on the driver’s side. You will see a small, usually yellow or black, handle tucked down low. In some models, it is located directly under the air intake duct, which may need to be moved slightly.
Pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean with a lint-free rag, and reinsert it fully. Pull it out again and look at the cross-hatched area. There are typically two holes or marks: one for “Cold” and one for “Hot.”
If the fluid is below the “Hot” mark while the engine is warm, you need to add a small amount of MERCON LV. Be very careful not to overfill, as this can cause the fluid to foam, leading to overheating and erratic shifting.
How to Change Your Transmission Fluid at Home
Performing a drain and fill is a straightforward task that requires basic tools. You will need a 10mm or 11mm socket (depending on the specific drain plug installed), a drain pan, a long-neck funnel, and your fresh MERCON LV fluid.
- Lift the Vehicle: Use a floor jack and jack stands to safely raise the front of the car. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
- Locate the Drain Plug: Look at the bottom of the transmission case. You will see a single bolt facing downward. This is the drain plug.
- Drain the Fluid: Place your pan underneath and remove the bolt. Expect about 4 to 5.5 quarts to come out. Inspect the fluid for a burnt smell or metal flakes.
- Replace the Plug: Once the dripping stops, wipe the plug clean and reinstall it. Tighten it firmly but do not over-torque it, as the aluminum casing can strip.
- Refill: Use your long-neck funnel to pour the fresh 2013 ford taurus transmission fluid type into the dipstick tube. Start with 4 quarts, then check the level.
After refilling, start the engine and move the gear selector through every position (P, R, N, D, S) while holding the brake. This helps circulate the new fluid through the valve body and clutches before you take it for a test drive.
Check the level one last time after a short drive to ensure everything is perfect. If the level is correct and the shifts feel crisp, you have successfully completed one of the most important maintenance tasks for your Taurus.
Common Signs of Fluid Contamination or Low Levels
Your Taurus will often give you warning signs before a major failure occurs. Being able to “read” these signs can save you from a massive repair bill and keep you safe on the road.
The first sign is usually a change in shift quality. If the car “hunts” for gears or feels like it is slipping when you accelerate hard, the fluid pressure may be low or the fluid itself may be burnt and losing its grip.
Another red flag is the color and smell of the fluid. Fresh MERCON LV is a bright, translucent red. If the fluid on your dipstick looks dark brown or black and smells like burnt toast, it has been oxidized by heat and needs to be changed immediately.
The Danger of “Strawberry Milkshake” Fluid
If you pull the dipstick and the fluid looks like a pink, frothy milkshake, stop driving immediately. This is a sign that engine coolant has leaked into the transmission through the internal cooler in the radiator.
Water and coolant will quickly destroy the friction material on the transmission clutches. If caught early, a flush and a new radiator might save the car, but usually, this “strawberry milkshake” signifies the need for a professional rebuild.
Keep an eye out for leaks on your driveway as well. Transmission fluid leaks are typically reddish and oily. Common leak points on the 2013 Taurus include the axle seals and the transmission cooler lines near the radiator.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2013 ford taurus transmission fluid type
Can I use MERCON V instead of MERCON LV?
No. You should never use MERCON V in a transmission that calls for MERCON LV. The viscosities are different, and using the wrong fluid can cause internal damage, slippage, and overheating in your 2013 Ford Taurus.
Does the 2013 Ford Taurus have a transmission filter?
Yes, it has a filter, but it is not a “serviceable” filter in the traditional sense. It is located inside the transmission case and can only be replaced if the transmission is removed and disassembled. This makes regular fluid changes even more important.
How much does it cost to change the transmission fluid?
If you do it yourself, the cost is simply the price of 5-6 quarts of MERCON LV fluid, which usually totals $50 to $80. A dealership or independent shop will likely charge between $150 and $300 for a professional drain and fill or a flush.
Is a transmission flush better than a drain and fill?
For a 2013 Taurus with high mileage that hasn’t had regular service, a simple “drain and fill” is often safer. A high-pressure flush can sometimes dislodge debris that then gets stuck in the valve body. Regular drain and fills are the best way to maintain health.
Final Thoughts on Transmission Care
Taking care of your 2013 Ford Taurus doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By simply ensuring you use the correct 2013 ford taurus transmission fluid type and checking your levels every few months, you are doing more than most owners to protect your investment.
The MERCON LV standard is designed to provide the perfect balance of fuel efficiency and heavy-duty protection. While Ford says the fluid can last a long time, the “pro” move is to refresh it every 30,000 to 50,000 miles to keep those shifts feeling like the day the car left the factory.
Remember to always work safely, use jack stands, and double-check your fluid levels when the engine is hot. A little bit of preventative maintenance today goes a long way in avoiding the “Check Transmission” light tomorrow. Stay safe and keep those gears turning smoothly!
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