For the 2018 Ford Transit 250 equipped with the 3.2L 5-cylinder diesel engine (Engine Code [V] 99V V Diesel Turbo), the oil capacity is 12 quarts with a filter change. Recommended viscosities include 0W-30 or 0W-40 for all temperatures, and 5W-30 or 5W-40 for temperatures above -29°C. AMSOIL recommends Signature Series 0W-40 100% Synthetic Max-Duty Diesel Oil (DZFQT-EA) and the AMSOIL Oil Filter (EAO17-EA).
What oil does a 2018 Ford Transit 250 3.2L Diesel take?
The engine requires specific viscosities depending on your operating temperature and fuel type. For all temperatures, 0W-30 or 0W-40 is recommended. If you are using biodiesel fuels (B6 – B20), the AMSOIL lookup specifies using SAE 5W-40 API CJ-4.
AMSOIL product recommendations
Based on the AMSOIL lookup for your 2018 Ford Transit 250, here are the recommended fluids and filters to maintain engine health and performance.
Engine Oil & Filter Kits
| Product Name | Part Number |
|---|---|
| Signature Series 0W-40 Synthetic Diesel Oil | DZFQT-EA |
| AMSOIL Oil Filter | EAO17-EA |
| WIX XP Oil Filter | 57502XP-EA |
| WIX Oil Filter | 57502-EA |
Other Essential Fluids
| Component | AMSOIL Product | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Coolant | Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze | ANTPC1G-EA |
| Coolant (Concentrate) | Propylene Glycol Antifreeze | ANT1G-EA |
| Automatic Transmission | Signature Series Fuel-Efficient ATF | ATLPK-EA |
| Automatic Transmission | OE Fuel-Efficient ATF | OTLQT-EA |
Engine Oil Specifications
| Condition | Viscosity |
|---|---|
| All Temperatures | 0W-30, 0W-40 |
| Above -29°C | 5W-30, 5W-40 |
| Biodiesel (B6 – B20) Use | SAE 5W-40 API CJ-4 |
AMSOIL lookup oil grade: SEO84
Oil Capacity and Service Details
| Metric | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity (with filter) | 12 quarts |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 29 ft/lbs |
Note: Always check the oil level after refilling.
How much transmission fluid does it take?
For vehicles with the 6R80 automatic transmission, the initial fill capacity is 3.5 quarts. However, if you are performing a total system fill for the 6-speed 6R80, the required capacity is 13.1 quarts.
Diesel maintenance notes for this vehicle
Maintaining a diesel engine like the 3.2L 5-cylinder requires attention to specific components. Owners should prioritize fuel filtration quality and monitor turbocharger health. Because these vehicles are often used in commercial capacities, high-frequency idling and heavy payloads can increase the demand on the lubrication system. Additionally, ensure cooling system integrity is maintained to manage engine heat during heavy towing or hauling tasks.
Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help
| Concern | Why it matters | AMSOIL Product | How it may help | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Wear | Diesel engines face high pressure and friction. | DZFQT-EA | Delivers 6X more wear protection based on Detroit Diesel testing. | Requires proper service intervals. |
| Contaminants | Small particles can cause abrasive wear. | EAO17-EA | 99% efficiency at 20 microns to reduce engine wear. | Filter must be replaced regularly. |
| Extreme Temperatures | Viscosity changes can affect lubrication. | DZFQT-EA | Excels in extreme temperatures and maintains proper thickness. | Not a substitute for mechanical repair. |
Common maintenance concerns for this vehicle
- Fuel System Health: Diesel engines are sensitive to fuel quality; monitoring filtration is essential.
- Turbocharger Protection: Ensuring high-quality lubrication helps protect turbo components under load.
- Cooling System Integrity: Managing engine heat is critical during heavy hauling or towing operations.
- Exhaust Aftertreatment: Diesel vehicles often require monitoring of exhaust systems and DEF requirements.
Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes
Official NHTSA recall research for the 2018 Ford Transit 250 returned no recall records at the time of this report. However, owners should always verify open recalls by VIN, as applicability depends on production date, trim, and specific equipment. This document does not include official TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) data.
About this vehicle
The 2018 Ford Transit 250 is a prominent member of the Ford Transit family, which has served as a cornerstone for light commercial vehicles for decades. In North America, the Transit series notably replaced the long-running Ford E-Series (Econoline) van lineup after the 2014 model year. This specific vehicle features a 3.2L 5-cylinder diesel engine, placing it in a category of commercial vehicles designed for durability and payload capacity.
The Transit is widely utilized in various configurations, including cargo vans and passenger variants, often categorized under nomenclature such as the T-Series (T-150, T-250, T-350). Because these vehicles are staples for commercial fleets and tradespeople, they are frequently subjected to high-frequency idling, heavy payloads, and significant mileage accumulation. This usage profile makes specialized maintenance—such as high-quality diesel oil and robust filtration—a priority for owners looking to maximize vehicle longevity.
While many Ford heavy-duty discussions focus on the ‘Power Stroke’ engines found in the Super Duty line, users should verify if this 3.2L engine shares specific service intervals or maintenance characteristics with those larger diesel platforms through a dedicated service manual.
Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance
What is the oil capacity for my 2018 Ford Transit 250 3.2L?
The capacity is 12 quarts when performing an oil change with a new filter. Always check the level after refilling.
Which oil viscosity should I use in cold weather?
For all temperatures, 0W-30 or 0W-40 is recommended. These provide better flow during cold starts compared to higher weight oils.
Can I use biodiesel in my Transit diesel engine?
Yes, but if using biodiesel fuel (B6 – B20), the AMSOIL lookup recommends using SAE 5W-40 API CJ-4.
How often can I change my oil?
While specific intervals depend on usage, AMSOIL products like DZFQT-EA are designed to help confidently extend drain intervals.
What is the torque spec for my oil drain plug?
The oil drain plug should be torqued to 29 ft/lbs.
How do I check for active recalls on my Ford Transit?
You should verify open recalls by using your specific VIN through the NHTSA website or contacting a Ford dealership, as recall applicability can vary by production date and equipment.
Disclaimer: Not all information provided is from the manufacturer. Always consult your owner’s manual or a certified mechanic to verify specifications for your specific VIN before performing maintenance.